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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Guidance on strengthening disability inclusion in Humanitarian Response Plans.
23 Jul 2020 -
US$20 million for Sahel drive to curb COVID-19
23 Jul 2020 African Development Bank, UNHCR and G5 Sahel pledge to back effort to curb coronavirus' impact on forcibly displaced people and their hosts. -
Persons with Disabilities
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Financial statements for the year 2019 as contained in the Report of the Board of Auditors to the General Assembly on the financial report and audited financial statements of the voluntary funds administered by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for the year ended 31 December 2019 (A/AC.96/1201)
22 Jul 2020 -
Young artists drew a world where kindness defeats COVID-19 - We animated it
22 Jul 2020 UNHCR asked youth to draw in solidarity with refugees amid the pandemic. We received 2,000 drawings from 100 countries, chose seven and brought them to life. -
Winners announced for UNHCR Youth with Refugees Art Contest
22 Jul 2020 -
Kinda Alloush
Kinda is a Syrian actress, known for her roles in Syrian and Egyptian drama and cinema, and has been a supporter of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency since 2016. -
Presentation by the Director, Division of International Protection
22 Jul 2020 -
Raya Abirached
Raya Abirached was announced as a Lebanese Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in April 2021.