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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Germany: Statement at the final Session High Commissioner Dialogue
9 Dec 2020 -
Russian Federation: Statement at the final Session High Commissioner Dialogue. (unofficial translation)
9 Dec 2020 -
Swiss (Switzerland) Statement at the final Session High Commissioner Dialogue
9 Dec 2020 -
Russian Federation: Statement at the final Session High Commissioner Dialogue
9 Dec 2020 -
8 winning ideas from Model UN students to help refugees
9 Dec 2020 UNHCR challenged students to tackle issues related to forced displacement in their debates. Here's a summary of their winning ideas and the thinking behind them. -
Forced displacement passes 80 million by mid-2020 as COVID-19 tests refugee protection globally
9 Dec 2020 -
Biography and Portraits Speakers Final Session HCD
8 Dec 2020 -
Integrating NCD Care in Humanitarian Settings- an operational guide. 2020
8 Dec 2020 This document is an operational guide for UNHCR and other public health staff of humanitarian organizations providing healthcare to ensure that care for persons with noncommunicable disease is included and integrated within primary health care services. -
Central America and Mexico reaffirm commitment to address the needs of hundreds of thousands forced to flee
8 Dec 2020 MIRPS countries commit to continue advancing effective responses to forced displacement in Central America during their third annual meeting.