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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Discussion Papers 1- 4 UNHCR's Engagement in Humanitarian-Development Cooperation
Dec 2020 Cooperation with development organizations has long been part of UNHCR's approach to building long-term support and finding durable solutions for people forced to flee. Over the past few years, UNHCR's cooperation has both widened and deepened by engaging with global entities like the World Bank, regional entities like the African Development Bank, and development donors. These four papers explore how UNHCR can further cooperate with development actors and strengthen – what we often refer to as – the humanitarian-development nexus. -
Evaluation of UNHCR's Approach to Learning and Development for Workforce and Partners
Dec 2020 This centralised evaluation takes a holistic look at workforce learning and development (L&D) within UNHCR. Making use of desk reviews, mapping of L&D in other agencies, key informant interviews, a staff survey, and numerous validation workshops; the evaluation proposes recommendations at the strategic and practical levels for strengthening UNHCRs approach and delivery of learning and development. Attachments: Annex: ES/2020/11 Management Response and Executive Summary (.zip) -
Nearly 40 million at heightened risk of violence, discrimination and rights abuses as COVID spawns a 'coping crisis'
30 Nov 2020 Study reveals a severe deterioration in international efforts to protect the world's most vulnerable, with human rights violations on the rise. -
'Climate change is the defining crisis of our time and it particularly impacts the displaced'
30 Nov 2020 UNHCR's Special Advisor on Climate Action, Andrew Harper, outlines how global warming is driving displacement, and why decisive action is vital now. -
Mid-Year Trends 2020
30 Nov 2020 -
UN refugee chief appeals for funds to help refugees fleeing Ethiopia's Tigray to Sudan
30 Nov 2020 -
Climate Change / Forced Displacement - a dangerous crossing
30 Nov 2020 -
UNHCR chief calls for support for Sudan as it hosts Ethiopia refugees
29 Nov 2020 Filippo Grandi also launches an appeal for nearly US$150 million to help the government of Sudan look after the refugees. -
Protecting the rights of refugee women
27 Nov 2020