| World Refugee Day | |
|---|---|
| Official name | World Refugee Day |
| Observed by | Worldwide |
| Type | International, cultural |
| Significance |
|
| Date | 20 June |
| Frequency | Every year |
| Related to | Refugee Week |
World Refugee Day is an international day organised every year on 20 June by the United Nations. It is designed to celebrate and honour refugees from around the world. The day was first established on 20 June 2001,[1] in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.
The event aims to recognise the strength of the refugees who have fled the conflict and persecution of their country in hope of finding sanctuary and living a better life.[2] World Refugee Day builds the concept of understanding for their plight which shows one's resilience and courage in the rebuilding of their future.[3]
The day is seen as an opportunity for everyone to experience, understand and celebrate "the rich diversity" of the communities of refugees. Events such as theatre, dance, films, and music aim to allow refugee community organisations, voluntary and statutory organisations, local councils, and schools to host events during the week in order to honour the cause.[4]
World Refugee Day is also celebrated through World Refugee Week and is designed to provide an important chance for asylum seekers and refugees to be seen, listened to and valued by the community that they are living in.[3]