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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What I learned from a refugee camp in West Africa
16 Dec 2020 My family fled civil war in Liberia to a refugee camp in Guinea in West Africa. I learned the power of resilience and the value of diversity. -
Statement Latter-day Saint Charities
16 Dec 2020 -
Standard Operating Procedures
UNHCR's Toolkit for developing and implementing Standard Operating Procedures for BIP. The toolkit includes guidance, templates, workshop guide, and examples from the field. -
Growing needs for thousands of displaced Ethiopians in Sudan
16 Dec 2020 As families reunite, their greatest needs are food, water, shelter and sanitation. All long for peace so they can return home. -
Statement Women's Refugee Commission
16 Dec 2020 -
Forms
Forms for implementing BIP. This folder includes both internal BIP forms (e.g. BIA form and BID forms) as well as forms developed by the Case Management Task Force of the Alliance for Child Protection in Humanitarian Action for implementation of child protection case management. -
My face, their stories: Testimonials
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Powerpoint Presentation. Fourth informal briefing
15 Dec 2020 -
UNHCR and IOM saddened at deaths of refugees and migrants in shipwreck off Venezuela coast
15 Dec 2020