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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First refugees receive COVID-19 vaccinations in Rwanda
12 Mar 2021 Over 400 health service workers and residents of Gashora transit centre get their first jabs, as part of national vaccine plan that covers all refugees and asylum-seekers. -
Violence forces Central African family into exile once more
12 Mar 2021 Less than a year after returning home following a first spell in exile, Paul and his family again sought refuge in DRC following the latest wave of violence in the Central African Republic. -
Aged 28, Paul has been forced to flee violence in the Central Africa Republic twice
12 Mar 2021 -
Rwanda vaccinates refugees and asylum-seekers against COVID-19
12 Mar 2021 -
Uganda shows how including refugees can lift up a whole society
11 Mar 2021 On a visit to Bidibidi settlement, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi described projects involving government, refugees, aid groups and locals as 'game changers'. -
Strategic Framework for Climate Action
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Including refugees lifts up entire communities in Uganda
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The Invisible Emergency - Syria 10 commemoration
11 Mar 2021 -
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10 Mar 2021 Joint Press Release