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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Coronavirus pandemic wreaks havoc on displaced Venezuelans
12 May 2020 COVID-19 stay-at-home orders have taken a heavy toll on Venezuelan refugees and migrants, many of whom were barely scraping by even before the pandemic hit. -
UNHCR warns stateless people risk being left behind in coronavirus response
11 May 2020 -
UNHCR urges sustained support to protect world's forcibly displaced from "devastating" impact of coronavirus
11 May 2020 -
Refugee children hard hit by coronavirus school closures
11 May 2020 Going to school was already a daily challenge for many displaced children around the world. Now there are fears some may not return after COVID-19 lockdowns lift. -
'Can everybody see me?' - Goodwill Ambassadors hold virtual meeting for refugees
8 May 2020 Video chat shows companies how to back UNHCR's campaign to support refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic. -
Ben Stiller, Cate Blanchett and Khaled Hosseini: 3 ways businesses can support refugees, Covid-19
8 May 2020 -
Coronavirus emergency: 3 ways your company or foundation can help refugees and other people forced to flee
8 May 2020 -
Surging violence uproots thousands of people in eastern Congo
8 May 2020 -
Conflict and heavy floods force tens of thousands of people to flee their homes in Somalia, amidst COVID-19 threat
8 May 2020