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.
-
Evaluation of the UNHCR - Government of Colombia Four-Year Plan (2015-2019)
Jun 2020 Attachments: ES/2020/06 Management Response, Spanish version and Executive Summary. (.zip) -
Evaluation of the Ikea Foundation Livelihoods and Energy Projects among Somali Refugees and Host Communities in Ethiopia
Jun 2020 Attachments: ES/2020/02: UNHCR Evaluation Management Response (.zip) -
UNHCR outraged at killings of two refugees and one community member in Niger
1 Jun 2020 -
Projected Global Resettlement Needs 2021 (PDF)
Jun 2020 The Projected Global Resettlement Needs report contains details of the protection environment and refugee profiles in need of resettlement in UNHCR operations globally. It serves as the primary reference document for dialogue on resettlement needs, priorities, likely gaps and challenges in programme delivery, allowing informed decisions on quota and resource allocations. -
High Commissioner's Dialogue on Protection Challenges: Protection and Resilience during Pandemics
During this dialogue, participants reflected upon how to address the pressing protection and solutions questions that have emerged, building upon the international refugee protection regime and principles and arrangements set out in the Global Compact on Refugees. -
Southern Hemisphere winter intensifies hardship for displaced Venezuelans
29 May 2020 -
Northeastern Nigeria camp blaze kills two, leaving thousands without shelter
29 May 2020 -
Winter threatens Venezuelans unprepared for the cold
29 May 2020 As chilly weather steals over South America, vulnerable Venezuelan refugees and migrants brace for added hardship. -
COVID-19 Emerging Practices on Livelihoods and Economic Inclusion
28 May 2020 The COVID-19 pandemic is upending millions of people's lives and devastating health and socio-economic consequences on humans and societies. Many refugees have seen the business they run or work for, often as day workers, forced to close. This document is a snapshot of emerging practices on livelihoods and economic inclusion to respond to the social and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.