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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Congratulatory message from Norwegian Ambassador, Tine Mørch Smith.
5 Oct 2020 -
As COVID-19 pandemic roils Latin America, Venezuelans face wave of evictions
2 Oct 2020 Lockdown job losses make it impossible for many vulnerable Venezuelan refugees and migrants to keep a roof over their heads. -
Global programmes
2 Oct 2020 -
UNHCR launches new portal with verified higher education opportunities for refugees
2 Oct 2020 -
Food security for refugees: immediate needs and long-term opportunities
2 Oct 2020 -
Nansen Refugee Award ceremony 2020
1 Oct 2020 -
Hardships multiply for older refugees amid COVID-19 pandemic
1 Oct 2020 Physical decline, deepening economic hardship and isolation make life tougher for older people, who comprise four per cent of the forcibly displaced population worldwide. -
Final list of speakers for the general debate
1 Oct 2020 -
Colombian woman devotes life to helping sexually exploited children heal
1 Oct 2020 Mayerlín Vergara Pérez wins Nansen Refugee Award for her work helping young survivors of sexual violence, many of them refugees, rebuild their lives.