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.
-
Financial Rules for Voluntary Funds Administered by the High Commissioner for Refugees (A/AC.96/503/Rev.12)
16 Feb 2023 -
Venezuelan medical professionals step in to fill healthcare gaps in Peru
15 Feb 2023 -
UN and partners appeal for US$5.6 billion to help millions affected by Ukraine war
15 Feb 2023 Joint OCHA-UNHCR press release -
Venezuelan medical professionals step in to fill healthcare gaps in Peru
15 Feb 2023 Among the 1.5 million Venezuelan refugees and migrants in Peru are doctors and nurses who want nothing more than the chance to serve. -
Municipalities Toolkit Flyer - Icelandic
14 Feb 2023 -
Culture, context and mental health and psychosocial well-being of refugees and internally displaced persons from South Sudan
14 Feb 2023 This document intends to provide a starting point for all involved in humanitarian assistance in fields such as MHPSS, public health, protection, education, community development and peacebuilding, providing them with background information to help them better engage with South Sudanese populations, whether those displaced within South Sudan or those who have become refugees. -
Türkiye-Syria earthquake
During this rapidly evolving humanitarian crisis, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is providing humanitarian assistance to refugees and people forced to flee their homes. -
Municipalities Toolkit Handbook - Icelandic
13 Feb 2023 -
Vital aid reaches Syrian quake survivors who - again - have lost everything
10 Feb 2023 UNHCR delivers assistance to families left homeless by the disaster, while reopening of aid route to northwest Syria offers hope to those already displaced during country's 12-year crisis.