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.
-
British Hollywood actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw named UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador
24 Feb 2021 -
2020 UNHCR-NGO Consultations on the COVID-19 response
-
Understanding the socioeconomic conditions of refugees in Kalobeyei, Kenya - Summary
23 Feb 2021 Summary of the 2018 Kaloyebei socioeconomic survey, a replica of the Kenyan national survey measuring poverty, generates comparable evidence to inform policy and programme targeting to support refugees and host communities. -
Summary of opening session
23 Feb 2021 In this session of the High Commissioner Dialogue on Protection Challenges, the High Commissioner discussed these contributions with an inspiring group of five refugees and a Sustainable Development Goals advocate who are engaged in the response to the pandemic. -
Summary of the session on resilience and inclusion in health
23 Feb 2021 Refugee-hosting countries can benefit from inclusive approaches to healthcare and other national services that bring humanitarian and development funds, multi-year planning and strategies in support of immediate and longer term goals. -
Summary of virtual session on preparing for the future
23 Feb 2021 Chaired by the High Commissioner, the closing session of this year's Dialogue considered how the international community can better ensure protection and solutions in future global emergencies. -
Final information note 2021 monthly consultations
23 Feb 2021 -
Summary of the session on COVID-19 and Climate Change
23 Feb 2021 This session of the HC dialogue will look at lessons learned from the COVID-19 crisis that can help address the ever-growing climate emergency and the existential threats it poses to the international community. -
Summary of the session of protection considerations
23 Feb 2021 Building on the opening session, the virtual protection session highlighted key protection challenges arising in the COVID-19 context and explore constructive ways to address them, including through efforts by refugees and internally displaced persons themselves.