Around the world, more than 117 million people have been forcible displaced from their homes. Many have fled due to conflict, human rights violations or persecution and have sought a safe haven in other countries.
FILIPPO GRANDI
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
There is indeed the universal right to seek asylum, so often responded to by countries neighbouring conflicts, and which I will always advocate for, as a matter of principle.
In 2001, the United Nations held the first World Refugee Day to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees.
Around the world countries mark the days with different events. Like these Congolese refugees in South Africa…
Or these locals and refugees in Latvia singing traditional Latvian and Ukrainian songs…
And it was no different in Rome. The day before, Pope Francis urged developed countries to avoid insensitivity and being cold. Rather he challenged them to repsond with love.
POPE FRANCIS
We are all called to welcome, promote, accompany and integrate those who call at our doors. I pray that states will work to ensure humane conditions for refugees and facilitate integration processes.
The UN Agency for Refugees has been working to implement these processes in various countries. For example, by providing temporary and safe educational centers for displaced children in Gaza and helping Ukrainian families find safe homes in neighboring countries.
KG
