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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Pandemic deepens hunger for displaced people the world over
31 Mar 2021 With COVID-19 lockdowns depriving many of jobs and income, increasing numbers of refugees and asylum-seekers are going hungry. -
Women struggle to get by as Yemen conflict hits six-year mark
31 Mar 2021 As the world's worst humanitarian crisis rages on, women and children make up three-quarters of the four million people forced from their homes, putting them at greater risk. -
Youth with Refugees Art Contest
UNHCR youth with refugees art contest helps youth across the world to use their creativity to support people forced to flee. -
UNHCR alarmed at brutal attacks by insurgent armed group in Mozambique
30 Mar 2021 -
Statement by the High Commissioner at the Brussels V Conference on Syria
30 Mar 2021 -
Serbia vaccinates refugees against COVID-19
30 Mar 2021 Serbia is including refugees and asylum-seekers in its national vaccination rollout, with support from UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. -
UNHCR rushing support and aid to Rohingya refugees affected by last week's massive fire
30 Mar 2021 -
Nepal becomes first country in Asia Pacific to vaccinate refugees against COVID-19
30 Mar 2021 Nepal is vaccinating refugees over the age of 65 as part of its national vaccination rollout. -
Rose Nathike Lokonyen
Rose Nathike Lokonyen was announced as a High Profile Supporter for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in March 2021.