The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is holding its annual World Refugee Day on June 20, which is a day to recognise refugees all across the world.
Here’s everything you need to know about World Refugee Day.
What is World Refugee Day?
Every year, this day honours the fortitude and bravery of those who have had to leave their own country because of war or persecution. The first-ever World Refugee Day was observed in 2001, to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.
Before the United Nations General Assembly formally declared it an international day in December 2000, it was known as Africa Refugee Day.
When is World Refugee Day?
World Refugee Day is held on June 20 every year. This year it is emphasising the need for economic and social inclusion of refugees.
What to do on World Refugee Day
Events held on World Refugee Day are an opportunity to help refugees.
By contributing to World Refugee Day's Aiming Higher campaign, you can help fund the establishment of scholarships for young refugees.
You can also join the agency’s international art competition, which will begin on June 20, and you'll have the chance to create shirts that will help generate money for refugees.
The theme of the 2023 art contest is “Hope away from home”.
The contest asks young people all over the world to submit a drawing that highlights the value of including refugees. This year, UNHCR is collaborating with a major garment brand to produce the top designs.
To participate you have to be between 10 and 30 years old. You don’t need to be a professional artist, anyone can join the competition who is between those ages.
The deadline is September 30, more details can be found on the UNHCR website.
