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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Procurement Figures 2022
5 Feb 2021 -
OPINION: When will refugees get a COVID-19 vaccine?
5 Feb 2021 Jordan and Lebanon are including Syrian refugees in their vaccination campaigns. If we don't live up to our commitments to refugees we risk a lost generation. -
UNHCR and IOM call for improved safeguards for the displaced on the frontlines of climate emergency
4 Feb 2021 -
Sexual and Reproductive Health - High Impact Practice - Kangeroo Mother Care, 2021
4 Feb 2021 The reduction of maternal and newborn deaths is central to UNHCR sexual and reproductive health programmes. This document describes Kangaroo Mother Care, a low-cost, high-impact intervention for low-birth weight newborns to support their essential needs for warmth, exclusive breastfeeding and infection prevention. -
Biden move on refugee resettlement will save lives: UNHCR
4 Feb 2021 -
Yemen's 'marginalized ones' endure hunger, displacement
4 Feb 2021 Conflict and displacement have compounded centuries of discrimination against Yemen's Muhamasheen minority, denying access to jobs, documentation and humanitarian aid. -
Keeping displaced families safe amid surge in Niger violence
3 Feb 2021 As increasing numbers are forced from their homes by armed groups in Niger's volatile western border region, UNHCR mobilizes network of local protection monitors. -
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
2 Feb 2021 -
The European Union, UNICEF and UNHCR join efforts to protect children on the move in Central America, Mexico and Southern Africa
2 Feb 2021