New York: Europe and the Arabs
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for translating solidarity with refugees from mere words into concrete actions. He stressed the need to strengthen humanitarian and development support, expand protection and durable solutions such as resettlement, and uphold the right to seek asylum, which is a fundamental pillar of international law. According to the United Nations Daily News Bulletin,
Guterres also emphasized the importance of listening to refugees and ensuring they have a voice in shaping their future, and investing in their long-term integration through education, decent work, and equal rights.
The Secretary-General's remarks came in a message on the occasion of World Refugee Day, which the United Nations commemorates this year under the theme: "Solidarity with Refugees." This year's celebration will be an occasion to express solidarity with refugees, highlight their stories, and demonstrate unwavering support in the face of the suffering they endure. Today, we honor the millions of refugees forced to flee war, persecution, and disasters, Guterres said, noting that each one carries a harrowing story of loss—“a story of a family torn apart and a future upended. Too many face closed doors and rising waves of xenophobia.”
From Sudan to Ukraine, from Haiti to Myanmar, the Secretary-General says the number of people fleeing for their lives has reached unprecedented levels, while support is dwindling, with the brunt of the burden falling on host communities, often in developing countries. This is neither just nor sustainable, the Secretary-General said.
Yet, even as the world falls short, Guterres notes that refugees continue to demonstrate extraordinary courage, resilience, and determination. And when given the opportunity, they make meaningful contributions—boosting economies, enriching cultures, and deepening social bonds. The Secretary-General concluded his message by saying: "If we never choose to be refugees, we choose how to deal with them. Let solidarity be our choice. Let courage be our choice. Let humanity be our choice."
What do you know about World Refugee Day?
World Refugee Day is a global day designated by the United Nations to honor refugees around the world. It falls on June 20th each year and celebrates the strength and courage of people forced to flee their homes to escape conflict or persecution. World Refugee Day is an occasion to build empathy and understanding for their plight and to recognize their resilience in rebuilding their lives.
World Refugee Day highlights the rights, needs, and dreams of refugees and helps mobilize political will and resources so that refugees can succeed, not just survive. According to the World Refugee Day website, every minute, 20 people leave everything behind to escape war, persecution, or terrorism.