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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Pizzeria gives Iraqi refugees a taste for the business in Jordan
10 Feb 2021 -
Report of the seventy-sixth meeting of the Standing Committee (A/AC.96/1196)
10 Feb 2021 -
2020 Annual Report Cash Assistance short version
9 Feb 2021 -
2020 Annual Report Cash Assistance long version
9 Feb 2021 -
Summary of discussions.
8 Feb 2021 This document is a Summary of discussions of the Virtual consultation on the 2021 High-Level Officials Meeting and proposed orientations for the GCR indicator report, 27 January 2021. -
In Sweden, storytelling to boost refugee children's mental health
8 Feb 2021 -
UNHCR and IOM welcome Colombia's decision to regularize Venezuelan refugees and migrants
8 Feb 2021 UNHCR–IOM Joint Press Release -
Venezuelans defy the pandemic to seek a future in Colombia
8 Feb 2021 Visiting Maicao, UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi urges greater support for countries hosting millions of displaced Venezuelans amid COVID-19 crisis. -
Statement by the UN High Commissioner for refugees on Colombia's new temporary protection measure for Venezuelans
8 Feb 2021