Every year on June 20, the world unites to commemorate World Refugee Day, a moment to reflect on the plight of refugees and reaffirm our collective commitment to humanity. This day honors the courage, strength, and resilience of millions of people forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution, and conflict.
War is not just an attack of one country on another, but an attack on humanity. Whatever the issue may be, here not only buildings and resources are being harmed, but also humanity. War is fought, everything is destroyed, and in the end, what remains is the future of that country, which either gets killed somewhere or is left orphaned to die.
Origins and Global Significance
Initiated by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), World Refugee Day was officially declared in 2000 and observed for the first time on June 20, 2001. The date was chosen to align with Africa Refugee Day, which had long been observed across several African nations.
This observance ties closely to the 1951 Refugee Convention, the cornerstone of international refugee protection, which defines who qualifies as a refugee and outlines the rights and legal protections afforded to them. It was further expanded by the 1967 Protocol, which removed earlier limitations based on geography and time.
While not legally binding, the Global Compact on Refugees (2018) reinforces principles of shared responsibility in addressing refugee crises and is widely endorsed around the world.
Key Principle: Non-Refoulement
At the heart of refugee protection lies the non-refoulement principle, which prohibits countries from returning refugees to any place where their life or freedom may be threatened. This principle is crucial to international efforts in safeguarding vulnerable populations.
Current Global Refugee Landscape
According to the latest 2025 data:
- 123 million people are forcibly displaced globally — the highest number ever recorded.
- Of these, ~43 million are refugees who’ve crossed international borders.
- ~73.5 million are internally displaced within their own countries.
- Top refugee-hosting nations include Iran (3.5M), Turkey (3.3M), Colombia, Germany, and Uganda.
- Alarmingly, over 40% of refugees are children.
- Leading countries of origin include Syria, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar, and the Gaza Strip.
Refugees in India: A Mixed Approach
India, though not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, has a long history of providing refuge to those in need. As of 2025, major refugee groups in India include:
- Myanmar (incl. Chin and Rohingya): Over 100,000 refugees
- Sri Lankan Tamils: Around 89,000, many living in camps across Tamil Nadu
- Tibetans: Approximately 63,000
- Afghans: About 9,000
- Other nationalities: ~6,000 individuals
A notable development in recent years is the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019, which took effect in 2024. The act grants Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh who entered India before 2014. While supporters hail it as a humanitarian measure, critics argue that it is religion-specific and excludes vulnerable groups, particularly Rohingya Muslims.
“Solidarity with Refugees” is more than just a slogan—it’s a call to action. On World Refugee Day, let’s not only raise awareness but also advocate for inclusive policies, safe asylum, and dignified treatment for all those seeking refuge, regardless of origin or faith.