The United Nations’ (UN) World Refugee Day is observed on June 20 each year. This event honors the courage, strength and determination of women, men and children who
are forced to flee their homeland under threat of persecution, conflict and violence. World Refugee Day honors the spirit and courage of millions of refugees worldwide.
World Refugee Day is a global observance and not a public holiday.
Background
For years, many countries and regions have been holding their own events similar to
World Refugee Day. One of the most widespread events is Africa Refugee Day, which is
celebrated on June 20 in many countries. the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution
to express its solidarity with Africa on December 4, 2000.
The resolution noted that 2001 marked the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention
relating to the status of refugees, and that the Organization of African Unity (OAU)
agreed to have International Refugee Day coincide with Africa Refugee Day on June 20.
The Assembly therefore decided that June 20 would be celebrated as World Refugee Day
from 2001 onwards. This day was designated by the UN High Commissioner for
Refugees to bring attention to the plight of approximately 14 million refugees around the
world.

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2019 Theme: #StepWithRefugees — Take A Step on
World Refugee Day
Around the world, communities, schools, businesses, faith groups and people from all
walks of life are taking big and small steps in solidarity with refugees. This World
Refugee Day, we challenge everyone to join together and take a step with refugees. Join
the movement.
Unaided Nation