This World Refugee Day, we stand in solidarity with the 110 million people around the world who have been forced from their homes by conflict and persecution.
Figures released by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, show that record numbers of people were uprooted from their homes last year. The war against Ukraine, ongoing unrest in countries including Afghanistan, and recent violence in Sudan have all contributed to the massive numbers of displaced people.
Around 35.3 million of those forced from their homes are refugees, crossing international borders to escape war and human rights abuses. Many are forced to make dangerous journeys in search of safety. On 14 June, a fishing boat carrying hundreds of men, women and children, sank off the coast of Greece. At least 78 people have died and around 500 more are still missing.
This World Refugee Day, we remember all those who have lost their lives and stand alongside those who are grieving, or are separated from their loved ones.
What is World Refugee Day?
Each year, on 20 June, people around the world come together to celebrate the strength, courage and resilience of people who have been forced to flee their homes to escape conflict or persecution.
This year, the theme of World Refugee Day is Hope Away from Home. We all need hope in our lives, especially right now. Hope brings people together. It inspires us, motivates us and gives us the strength to keep going when times are tough.
How you can help
Standing in solidarity with people seeking safety is more important than ever. There are lots of ways that you can show your support this World Refugee Day.
1. Join the Refugee Festival Scotland celebrations
Our anti-racist festival runs from 16-25 June, with more than 120 events taking place across Scotland. The festival brings people from different backgrounds together to celebrate the positive contribution refugees make to our communities. Take a look at the festival programme to see what events are happening near you.
2. Take Action For Hope
Join people across Scotland in a show of support for people seeking safety on Tuesday, 20 June. Download one of our colourful World Refugee Day banners and post it alongside a message of hope on your social media channels. Find out how you can take part.
3. Order your ‘Aye Welcome Refugees’ t-shirt
Want to get your hands on one of our eye-catching t-shirts? Make a suggested donation of just £20 here. Then email funding@scottishrefugeecouncil.org.uk with your address, reference number and t-shirt size (they are available in XS – 2XL)
4. Listen to our new podcast
The HOPE podcast was co-created by a group of radio presenters, podcast hosts, filmmakers and creatives with lived experience of seeking asylum. Listen to the first few episodes here.
5. Visit the Everyday Hope exhibition
To mark World Refugee Day, we commissioned photographer Najma Akubar to create a series of portraits celebrating New Scots. You can see the exhibition at Civic House in Glasgow from 20-22 June.
6. Support local groups and organisations
There are hundreds of grassroots groups and organisations across Scotland run by and for New Scots. Use our interactive online map to find out about groups operating near you.
7. Join Together With Refugees
We’re a founding member of Together With Refugees, a coalition of more than 300 organisations across the UK. Join our campaign calling for a better approach to supporting refugees that is fair, kind and more effective.
Make a donation in support of our work and help us reach more men, women and children seeking safety in Scotland.
