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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UNHCR urges greater support as violence continues unabated in Burkina Faso
29 Nov 2022 -
Créer des boîtes à outils numériques adaptées au contexte régional pour favoriser la mobilisation et l'engagement des communautés affectées par les déplacements forcés
29 Nov 2022 Créer des boîtes à outils numériques adaptées au contexte régional pour favoriser la mobilisation et l'engagement des communautés affectées par les déplacements forcés, Une pratique prometteuse concernant l'âge, le genre et la diversité (AGD) en Afrique de l'Ouest et du Centre -
To my Mom, who inspired me to achieve my dreams
29 Nov 2022 In this occasional series, we feature letters from people to refugees who have shaped their lives. -
Programme of the High Commissioner's Dialogue on Protection Challenges: Development Cooperation
29 Nov 2022 -
Report of the seventy-third session of the Executive Committee of the High-Commissioner's Programme (A/77/12/Add.1)
28 Nov 2022 -
Resultados de la Reunión del Funcionariado de Alto Nivel 2021
28 Nov 2022 This is the Spanish version of the Outcome Document for the High-Level Officials Meeting, held on 14 and 15 December 2021. -
Résultats de la Réunion des hauts responsables 2021
28 Nov 2022 This is the French version of the Outcome Document for the High-Level Officials Meeting, held on 14 and 15 December 2021. -
UNHCR warns rising tide of hunger, insecurity, and underfunding worsening gender-based violence risks
25 Nov 2022 -
Food shortages and aid cuts put more displaced women at risk of gender-based violence
25 Nov 2022 Around the world, forcibly displaced women and girls are bearing the brunt of deteriorating economies, rising prices and a lack of funding for humanitarian responses.