World Refugee Day

The City of Portland recognizes World Refugee Day to honor refugees and displaced people around the world . First established by the United Nations in 2001, World Refugee Day is recognized each year on June 20th to highlight the millions of people who seek safety from war, famine, climate disasters, religious and political oppression, and displacement around the world. Anyone can become a refugee and has the right to seek safety. Mayor Wilson proclaims June 20, 2026, as World Refugee Day in Portland.  The City invites you to take part in the annual World Refugee Day Walk in Portland . This community gathering is a celebration of resilience, belonging, and shared humanity. Location: Downtown Portland Waterfront Starting Point: Salmon Street Springs Fountain; 1000 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204 Time: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Walk begins at 10:30 a.m. Visit the city’s website to read the full proclamation. Portland.gov/Mayor/News

  Join the City of Lancaster, PA   for a flag raising ceremony honoring World Refugee Day, sponsored by CWS Lancaster. June 24, 2026 City Hall, 120 N. Duke Street 12 p.m.

On World Refugee Day 2026 , the World Health Organization (WHO) joins the global community in reaffirming that the right to seek safety is universal and must be protected for all. As the world marks 75 years of the 1951 Refugee Convention, WHO calls for inclusive, resilient and welcoming systems that uphold refugees’ rights to protection, safety and dignity, recognizing that access to protection is inseparable from access to continuous, culturally-sensitive quality health care. There are over 117.8 million people forcibly displaced worldwide, 38% of whom are children, with 68% hosted in low- and middle-income countries. Throughout the displacement journey, disruptions to safe housing, water and sanitation, livelihoods, social protection and essential health services can increase health risks and deepen existing vulnerabilities. There is an urgent need to invest in sustainable, integrated, and resilient systems that can respond to the needs of displaced populations and host communities...

  The UNHCR estimates that the number of forcibly displaced and stateless individuals will climb to 136 million by the end of 2026. More than 117.8 million people are currently forcibly displaced worldwide. The 68% of displaced individuals are hosted in low- and middle-income nations, straining local resources. Approximately 65% of all refugees come from five countries: Venezuela, Ukraine, the Syrian Arab Republic, Afghanistan, and Sudan.Children make up roughly 38% of the global displaced population. On Saturday, June 20, 2026, the World Refugee Day 2026 will be observed by honoring the courage and resilience of people forced to flee conflict and persecution. This year's commemoration holds massive significance as it marks the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention , the foundational international treaty protecting refugee rights. The theme chosen by the UNHCR for 2026 is " Until Everyone Is Safe " (alternatively framed as The Right to Seek Safety : A Common...

World Refugee Day honours those who have been forced to flee their home countries to seek safety for themselves and their families elsewhere. At a time when growing global conflicts are displacing millions of people, many countries are also closing their doors to those seeking protection by toughening legislation and criminalizing migrants. After decades of building a reputation as a country that welcomes refugees, Canada has also joined this troubling trend. With the passage of Bill C-12 , Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act , Canada has moved away from its longstanding humanitarian values. The barriers it creates may leave many asylum seekers vulnerable, without legal status or access to essential services. Are these laws strengthening border controls at the expense of refugees’ rights? What is the human cost of this Bill, not just for those seeking protection, but for the communities that seek to welcome them? From 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm at 312 Main, Vancouver. ...

The World Refugee Day honors the strength and resilience of refugees and invites our community to come together in welcome and celebration. Join Canopy NWA for a free community celebration! This family-friendly event is open to all and will feature a vibrant mix of cultural experiences, food, music, and activities that highlight the strength and diversity of our refugee and immigrant communities in Northwest Arkansas. Guests can enjoy free face painting and hands-on activities for children and families, along with live music and cultural performances throughout the event. A variety of international foods will be available to sample and purchase, offering a chance to experience flavors from around the world. Henna art will also be available for purchase, along with other interactive cultural experiences. Throughout the event, guests will also have the opportunity to learn more about Canopy’s work supporting refugee families as they build new lives in Northwest Arkansas. World Refugee ...

Join us on Wednesday, June 17, at Victoria Pak as we come together to recognize the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees in our community. Especially right now, with millions of people around the world displaced by conflict, violence, and crisis, it is more important than ever to build welcoming communities where people feel safe, supported, and connected. The event will include community and cultural displays, storytelling, and the presentation of newcomer bursaries recognizing refugee students in Regina. Wednesday, June 17. Formal program begins at 12:00 PM. Victoria Park - 2190 Victoria Avenue.   A special thank you to the Regina Downtown Business Improvement District and the Regina Farmers’ Market for supporting this event and helping create welcoming community spaces in downtown Regina. Everyone is welcome. We hope to see you there. Save the Date: World Refugee Day 2026

Plenary meeting of the Economic and Social Council on the theme "Transition from relief to development: advancing solutions for internally displaced persons and strengthening financing for crisis contexts" Plenary meeting of the Economic and Social Council on the theme " Transition from relief to development: advancing solutions for internally displaced persons and strengthening financing for crisis contexts " Coordination, programme and other questions - Item 12; Long-term programme of support for Haiti - Item 12(e); African countries emerging from conflict - Item 12(f); Sustainable development in the Sahel - Item 12(g) Related Sites and Documents:  Learn more . Watch the 2026 ECOSOC Meeting on the transition from relief to development - Economic and Social Council, 26th Plenary Meeting! 02:30:09 Economic and Social Council