About World Refugee Day 2008
© UNHCR photo
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.
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Teen refugee teaches other young asylum-seekers about risks of abuse
23 Apr 2021 A peer-taught programme in Serbia is helping vulnerable unaccompanied children protect themselves from violence and exploitation as they seek safety. -
UNHCR's Grandi calls on the international community to stand with DR Congo
23 Apr 2021 -
Safety and support for Central African refugees in the DRC
23 Apr 2021 On a visit to the DRC, UN Refugee Chief Filippo Grandi, applauds inclusive efforts to support Central African refugees, while calling for greater international support. -
Mounting death toll in the Central Mediterranean calls for urgent action
23 Apr 2021 JOINT UNHCR/IOM PRESS RELEASE -
How do you start over when you have lost so much? Central Africa refugees moving to safer areas need support
23 Apr 2021 -
Preparatory meetings and roundtables
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High-Level Officials Meeting 2021 - Reflecting on progress and charting the future infographic
22 Apr 2021 This document outlines the three key priorities for the first High-Level Officials Meeting (HLOM), which will take place in December 2021. Priority 1: Expanding support for refugees and the countries who receive them. Priority 2: Advancing implementation of the pledges made at the first Global Refugee Forum. Priority 3: Identifying areas in need of further support. -
Data reveals impacts of climate emergency on displacement
22 Apr 2021 A new data visualization shows how the climate emergency is converging with other threats to drive new displacement and increase the vulnerability of those already forced to flee. -
Data visualization reveals impacts of climate change on displacement
22 Apr 2021