June 20th is International Refugee Day

Today, the 20th of June, is the International Refugee Day. The motto of this year is “Hope away from home”. This day is important for the Centre, because it underlines what we attempt to do every day. It emphasizes how important it is to ensure that those who came to us to find a better life are treated with respect and dignity, and how important it is to lend a helping hand during their integration into the local community.  

As the UN said: “Accepting refugees in communities in which they can find safety after their escape from conflict or persecution is the most effective way to support them in their new start and to enable them to become a benefit for the country in which they found refuge. It is also the best way how to prepare for a safe and voluntary return home once the circumstances allow it, or to prepare for a successful future in the new home.”  

And how did this all begin?

In 1914, Pope Pius X. established a National Day of Immigrants to draw attention to people fleeing Italy to other countries. This day fell on the second Sunday after the Celebration of the Epiphany. Today, it is celebrated the last September Sunday. 

Almost a century later, 2001 was the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, which was supposed to honor their memory, increase the awareness regarding their situation, and requested the support of those affected all around the world. This is why on December 4, 2000, the UN General Assembly decided that from the following year, June 20 will be recognized as International Refugee Day. 

This day is celebrated ever since, and each year has its own slogan, some of which were “Whoever. Wherever. Whenever. Everyone has the right to seek safety” last year, or the “Together, we can achieve anything” in 2021.  

You can find more information about International Refugee Day, prepared events, or donation options on the UN webpage.