About World Refugee Day 2008

On June 20, we celebrate World Refugee Day. This year, events around the world focus on the fundamental need for protection. For some, this means economic security; for others, protection is freedom from violence and persecution. On World Refugee Day, we turn our attention to the millions of refugees who live without material, social and legal protection.

Since its foundation in 1951, UNHCR has protected tens of millions of refugees. For us, protection consists of tangible improvements in the lives of forcibly displaced people - from the provision of food and shelter to support for those lacking legal status or those wishing to return to their home countries. On World Refugee Day, we commemorate this vital engagement.

Protection is also about raising awareness. We cannot protect refugees if their plight remains invisible. On World Refugee Day, we will highlight the universal nature of protection. Not only are refugees protected all around the globe, but the responsibility for protection is equally global.

Ultimately, protection is a challenge that knows no borders. Neither can it be left to a single agency to provide. On World Refugee Day, we are launching a global call for action. We want to promote engagement at the grassroots level, in local communities, workplaces and online. Only through a global network of supporters can we meet the manifold needs of protection.

How can you help?

Online social utilities provide excellent tools for advocacy. Become a fan on Facebook, support our cause and share our videos, photos and latest news with your friends. You can also find us on MySpace, YouTube and Flickr.

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter

Global Refugee Forum - list of stocktaking events in 2021

3 May 2021

This document contains a list of GFR stocktaking events taking place in 2021 (please check webpage www.unhcr.org/high-level-officials-meeting for further updates). In the lead-up to the High-Level Officials Meeting in Dec 2021, UNHCR is convening regional, thematic and stakeholder-specific stocktaking events throughout the year, to identify both progress and the areas where more efforts are needed, particularly in light of the socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stocktaking is conducted either through standalone events or integrated into other events or processes.

Clean and Safe Energy in Refugee Settings: Moving forward on the Clean Energy Challenge

3 May 2021

Event flyer - On 3 June 2021, UNHCR will host an event called "Clean and Safe Energy in Refugee Settings: Moving forward on the Clean Energy Challenge". Referring to key energy pledges made in the context of the Global Refugee Forum in 2019, this event will spotlight how clean energy projects are already transforming the lives of refugees and local populations, present opportunities for further engagement and launch a Call to Action to anchor humanitarian energy to the global climate and energy agenda.

Looking Back, Moving Forward: Private Sector Support for Refugees

3 May 2021

Event Flyer: On 5 May 2021, UNHCR is hosting an event called "Looking back, moving forward - Private sector support for refugees", which is a follow-up event to the Global Refugee Forum in 2019. This event aims to foster insightful conversation on the many ways the private sector can help refugees today and in a post COVID-19 world.

Evaluation of UNHCR-led Initiatives to End Statelessness

May 2021

This evaluation was commissioned by the UNHCR Evaluation Service to generate evidence and insights regarding UNHCR's work to support States to end statelessness and was timed to inform potential adjustments for the remaining years of GAP implementation. The evaluation covered the period of 2001 to 2020 with particular focus on actions and advocacy efforts of UNHCR and partners to support the GAP since 2014.