World Refugee Day Report

The World Refugee Day is held every year on June 20th since 2001 - coinciding  with Africa Refugee  Day   -   and    commemorates   the strength,    courage   and    perseverance   of millions  of  refugees   -    an    expression   of solidarity   with    people    who    have    been uprooted from their homes due to war, conflict or persecution.

Individuals and community groups are encouraged to showcase their support to Refugees and IDPs on this day. The annual commemoration is marked by a variety of events organised by UNHCR and countless partners in more than 100 countries, involving government officials, humanitarian aid workers, celebrities, civilians and the forcibly displaced themselves. Today, the number of refugees and IDPs unprecedentedly reaching 79.5 million persons.   

COVID-19 has put a strain on health care, schools and our communities. We have all had to do our part to keep each other safe and, despite the challenges, refugees and displaced people have stepped up. Given the chance, refugees will continue to contribute to a stronger, safer and more vibrant world. Only by working together can we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Together we heal, learn and shine.

Given the restrained environment due to COVID-19 outbreak, UNHCR Office in Kuwait implemented several virtual initiatives with local counterparts to raise awareness about  World Refugee Day. The activities focused mainly on media interventions, lighting of Kuwait's main attractions, social media exposure from UNHCR's partners. Additionally, UNHCR organized a session on mental health and wellbeing of its Persons of Concern in Kuwait, and collaborated with Dabdoob to send gifts for the children.