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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Sudanese mother wins citizenship for her children after seven-year legal struggle
6 Mar 2020 Her victory comes on the heels of recent positive court rulings and paves the way for her children to continue their education, find work and belong to their country. -
UNHCR, partners seek US$621 million to support DRC refugees and hosting communities
6 Mar 2020 -
Data and Analysis
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Danny Ocean
Venezuelan superstar, Danny Ocean, has been a supporter of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency since 2019, when he performed at the Nansen Refugee Award Ceremony in Geneva, an event that highlights the incredible work ordinary people do to help refugees. -
Isabel Allende brings refugee story to life in new novel
5 Mar 2020 The bestselling Chilean writer was once a refugee herself. Concern for the displaced is at the heart of her latest novel. -
Sudanese provides safe haven to fellow refugees in Libya
4 Mar 2020 Having arrived in Tripoli 17 years ago, Osman has provided shelter and support to more than 200 refugees as part of UNHCR scheme to assist the most vulnerable. -
WUSC, UNHCR and UNESCO, Doubling our Impact, Third Country Higher Education Pathways for Refugees, February 2020
3 Mar 2020 -
UN appeals for US$877 million for Rohingya refugee response in Bangladesh
3 Mar 2020 -
New shelter eases monsoon threat for young Rohingya family
3 Mar 2020 After fleeing for their lives to the world's largest refugee settlement, young parents lived in fear of heavy rains and landslides before move to new home on stilts.