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.
-
UNHCR seeks US$164 million for displaced Central Africans
26 Feb 2021 -
The Global Cost of Inclusive Refugee Education.
26 Feb 2021 A joint report by UNHCR and World Bank, estimating the cost of educating refugee children in host country national education systems. -
Understanding the socioeconomic conditions of refugees in Kakuma Camp, Kenya - Infographic
26 Feb 2021 The Kakuma Socioeconomic Survey contributes to inform targeted responses to improve the living conditions of refugees and hosts. It also addresses the socioeconomic impacts of COVID-19 on refugees. -
Refugees in Sudan reap benefits of clean cooking energy
26 Feb 2021 A switch to ethanol reduces risky trips in search of firewood, slows deforestation and creates healthier home environments for refugees in White Nile state. -
Eye operation draws life into focus for young refugee
25 Feb 2021 Cataracts gradually robbed six-year-old Azaiya of his sight. A corrective operation allowed him to see a world with opportunities. -
Education for all refugee children is within reach - finds World Bank-UNHCR report
25 Feb 2021 -
UN agencies begin processing at Matamoros
24 Feb 2021 -
Helping vulnerable children to find their inner hero
24 Feb 2021 Syrian refugee wins UNHCR Innovation Award for an inventive project that helps vulnerable children overcome trauma linked to past experiences. -
UNHCR Global Procurement Plan 2023 (PDF)
24 Feb 2021 This document outlines UNHCR's Global Procurement Plan in 2023, segmented into months.