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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Relocation flights give Venezuelans a new lease on life in Brazil
27 Dec 2019 By flying thousands of Venezuelans out of a remote Amazonian state to cities with better job prospects, an 'interiorization' programme helps refugees get off to a fresh start. -
Kazakhstan amends laws to ensure universal birth registration and prevent childhood statelessness
26 Dec 2019 -
Syrian rose farmer uses skills to graft new life in Lebanon
24 Dec 2019 With a bag of seeds and a lifetime of knowledge, Syrian refugee Salem has regrown his precious flowers in Lebanon to provide his family and others with a vital income. -
'Hello Mum … It's me, Mohamed'
24 Dec 2019 Asylum-seekers flown from detention in Libya to safety in Rwanda call home to reassure relatives who feared the worst. -
At a Christmas concert in Panama, refugees are the guests of honour
24 Dec 2019 Having fled Venezuela, Panama Philharmonic Orchestra director Víctor Mata brings holiday cheer to refugees and asylum-seekers. -
In Panama, refugees are the guests of honour at a special Christmas concert
23 Dec 2019 -
"Hello Mum" - evacuated from Libya to Rwanda, Mohamed let family know he is safe
23 Dec 2019 -
Rose seeds from Syria bloom in Lebanon
20 Dec 2019 -
Malian refugee learns to become a construction worker in a camp
20 Dec 2019