World Refugee Day 2022: History and significance

World Refugee Day is annually observed on June 20 to celebrate refugees and recognize their struggles. It aims to honor the courage and strength that refugees continue to showcase despite the challenging circumstances that come their way. 

It is an occasion to develop empathy and put oneself in the shoes of those who attempt to rebuild their lives after fleeing their homeland or escaping wars and conflicts.  

According to Article 1(A)(2) of the 1951 Refugee Convention, “A refugee is an individual who has been forced to leave his country of nationality or habitual residence and is unable or unwilling to return for fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group”.

Every year, the United Nations comes up with a theme to celebrate World Refugee Day. This year’s theme is, “Whoever. Wherever. Whenever. Everyone has the right to seek safety,” according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

History

On June 4, 2000, the United Nations announced that World Refugee Day would be celebrated annually on June 17. The next year, the organization found that 2001 marked 50 years of the 1951 Refugee Convention, a landmark treaty that offered safety and rights to refugees of the Second World War, which had caused the displacement of about 40-60 million people, according to a report by CNBC. 

Also Read: Americas Summit: Biden, leaders agree on migration pact to host refugees

The United Nations then decided to observe World Refugee Day on June 20 to celebrate the convention. This date was also picked because the Organization of African Unity (OAU) had been observing African Refugee Day on the same date for several years. Both the organizations then decided to coincide the events with a common date.

Also Read: Ukrainian nuns open their monastery doors, welcome displaced people

Significance

World Refugee Day is observed to celebrate the strength and resilience of refugees, as well as their rights to lead a safe life. It is celebrated by organizing events to raise awareness, educate people and build sensitivity among them about refugee issues.