World Refugee Day – History, Significance, Theme, Facts
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World Refugee Day [June 20]: General Knowledge
World Refugee Day or International Refugee Day is observed on June 20 every year. With the increase in refugees worldwide and the difficulties they face, it is important to learn more about the situation and other related information so that we are able to provide the necessary support when and where required.
World Refugee Day is one day when awareness is spread about these things so that the general public is not ignorant of issues.
World Refugee Day History
World Refugee Day was organised for the first time on June 20, 2001, to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention Relating to Status of Refugees.
Recognised by the United Nations as an International day, it is observed to acknowledge the strength of the refugees who fear for their lives and have managed to flee from the conflicts and persecutions of their own country.
Who are Refugees?
Refugees are people who have escaped from their country, leaving behind their loved ones, jobs, and homes. They’ve crossed national boundaries to find a safe place in another country and are unwilling to return to their homeland due to fear of mistreatment. The fear leading to the fleeing can be due to violence, war, conflicts, persecution, etc.
Refugees are not considered a burden by the host countries. Rather, they are considered assets and strengths because they add up to the workforce of the host country and contribute to their economy.
They are considered strengths because they are survivors. They deserve help and support People should help them and honour their courage to leave their country behind.
World Refugee Day Facts
Some facts about refugees –
- There are 84 million people who have been forcibly displaced, all over the world
- One million children were born as refugees
- The largest number of refugees, which comes to 3.7 million people, are hosted in Turkey
World Refugee Day Significance
International Refugee Day is observed in recognition and honour of refugees all over the world.
Displaced from their native land to another country, they struggle to find shelter and livelihood. Better living conditions and safe and secure life are some of the other aspirations of these people.
World Refugee Day is important because it provides a platform to shed life on the struggles and issues these people face and encourages the general public to learn and contribute where they can.
International Refugee Day is an UN-recognised international day that celebrates the extraordinary struggle and courage of refugees worldwide. Refugees are the people who have fled from their country, fearing for life because of political unrest, unlawful prosecution, hunger, etc.
Q. What events take place on World Refugee Day?
Every year on World Refugee Day, governments, organisations, and people organise various events to support refugees. These events also involve government officials, celebrities, and the refugees themselves.
Q. What was World Refugee Day originally called?
Before the United Nations General Assembly announced World Refugee Day in December 2000, it was called Africa Refugee day.
Q. Which country shelters the largest number of refugees, and what does it have to do with World Refugee Day?
The single country to host the largest number of refugees is Turkey. In the last ten years, no other country has been able to protect refugees better than Turkey. World Refugee Day is an occasion where events are organised to support these refugees.
Q. What is the biggest refugee crisis of modern times, and what does it have to do with World Refugee Day?
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has caused more than 3 million people to leave their homes and seek shelter in other countries. This is the biggest refugee crisis of modern times. World Refugee Day is an occasion where events are organised to support these refugees.