World Refugee Day

Refugees are among the world’s most vulnerable populations. To protect their rights and well-being, the international community adopted the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. These agreements remain the only globally recognized legal frameworks that comprehensively address the needs and rights of refugees. Under these provisions, refugees are entitled to at least the same standards of treatment as other foreign nationals in a host country—and, in many cases, the same treatment as citizens.

The 1951 Refugee Convention: Safeguarding Rights

The 1951 Convention establishes a range of rights for refugees while also outlining their responsibilities to host countries. At its core is the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning refugees to any country where their life or freedom would be at risk. However, this protection is not absolute: refugees who threaten the security of the host country or have been convicted of serious crimes may be excluded from these protections to ensure community safety.

Key Rights Guaranteed by the 1951 Refugee Convention

The Convention guarantees refugees several fundamental rights, including:

• The right not to be expelled, except under strictly defined circumstances
• The right not to be penalized for illegal entry into a contracting State
• The right to work and earn a livelihood
• The right to adequate housing
• The right to education
• The right to public relief and assistance
• The right to freedom of religion
• The right to access legal systems and courts
• The right to freedom of movement within the host country
• The right to be issued identity papers and travel documents

Some rights, such as protection against refoulement, apply to all refugees regardless of how long they have stayed. Others become available as refugees remain longer in the host country, reflecting the need for greater legal and social protections over time.

The Global Refugee Crisis: A Growing Challenge

Every minute, approximately 20 people are forced to flee their homes to escape war, persecution, or terror. Armed conflict, violence, and persecution have displaced more than 80 million people worldwide, compelling them to leave behind everything familiar in search of safety for themselves and their families.

This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for international solidarity and effective policies to support both refugees and the communities that host them.

Refugees and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Shared Challenges, Shared Strength

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted our global interconnectedness and the importance of collective action. Throughout the crisis, refugees and displaced persons have shown remarkable resilience and solidarity, making positive contributions to the communities that have welcomed them—even as they faced significant challenges themselves.

Recognizing the heightened risks of the pandemic, World Refugee Day campaigns emphasize the importance of including refugees in essential services such as healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) advocates for inclusion as the only path to building stronger, safer, and more vibrant communities worldwide.

World Refugee Day 2024: Together We Heal, Learn, and Shine

Observed every year on June 20, World Refugee Day honors the courage, strength, and resilience of refugees around the globe. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing displacement crisis and our shared responsibility to support those forced to flee.

The 2024 campaign theme centers on inclusion, highlighting refugees’ access to health systems, education, and opportunities for social participation. It calls on governments, organizations, and individuals to work together to ensure refugees are not left behind as the world recovers from the pandemic.

By working together with compassion and cooperation, we can help refugees heal from trauma, learn new skills, and shine as valued members of society.

How You Can Support Refugees

Individuals and communities can make a difference in the lives of refugees in many ways:

• Advocate for refugee rights: Raise awareness and support policies that protect refugees and promote inclusion.
• Support refugee education: Donate to organizations providing educational opportunities for displaced children and adults.
• Volunteer your time: Assist local refugee programs offering language classes, job training, or cultural integration activities.
• Donate: Contribute to reputable humanitarian organizations providing shelter, food, and medical care.
• Foster empathy and understanding: Engage with refugee stories and experiences to help build a more compassionate society.

Visual Tribute: Images from World Refugee Day Celebrations

The resilience and spirit of refugees are powerfully captured in images from World Refugee Day events worldwide. These photographs through tell stories of hope, strength, and community solidarity—reminding us all of the importance of global action and empathy.

For more information and resources on refugee protection and rights, visit the official UNHCR page on the 1951 Refugee Convention and explore the UNHCR Global Trends Report 2023 for the latest data and analysis on global displacement.