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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Refugees in Namibia face double threat of funding cuts and climate change
17 Nov 2022 As inflation continues to push up the cost of basic necessities such as food and fuel, refugees in Namibia's remote Osire settlement are facing stark choices. -
Agenda - Fourth virtual quarterly informal briefing on the Global Compact on Refugees
16 Nov 2022 -
UN warns of worsening conflict and displacement in Sahel without immediate climate action
16 Nov 2022 -
Follow the Money IV: The use of AMIF and ISF-BV funds outside the EU
16 Nov 2022 -
Ricky Kej
Ricky Kej became a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador in September 2022 -
Young Rohingya refugees are helping to turn world's largest camp green
15 Nov 2022 Youth groups are championing efforts to regreen refugee camps in Bangladesh and to raise awareness about the impacts of the climate crisis. -
Session 1 - Civil society and UNHCR's engagement in strengthening access to justice
14 Nov 2022 -
Session 2 - Co-designing UNHCR-NGO Recommendations on Localization and Climate Action
14 Nov 2022 -
Session 3 - Refugee Coordination and Engagement with NGOs
14 Nov 2022