Marking World Refugee Day with Everyday Heroes

As conflict and crisis continue to uproot lives across the globe, new figures from UNHCR show that more than 122 million people are now forcibly displaced—that’s one in every 67 people on the planet.

Against this sobering backdrop, the United Nations in India marked World Refugee Day 2025 a day early—with a simple idea at its heart: solidarity isn’t a slogan, it’s something people practise.

Under the global theme, “Solidarity With Refugees: Celebrating Unsung Local Heroes”, the event—titled “Heroes Among Us”—was held in New Delhi on 19 June. Organised by UNHCR India, with the support of UNESCO, it recognised the quiet efforts of individuals who support refugees in their everyday lives—teachers, lawyers, landlords, and neighbours who help people start again with dignity.
 

Opening the event, Areti Sianni, Chief of Mission for UNHCR India, and Benno Boer, Officer-in-Charge at UNESCO New Delhi called for renewed commitment to refugee protection at a time of unprecedented need.

The programme also included a chit-chat style panel discussion, moderated by a refugee from Eritrea. Panelists comprising of refugee leaders, unsung heroes, and friends of UNHCR shared stories of experiences working with refugees —from securing school admissions to helping a refugee walk again. 

Performance and Perspective

Children from the Afghan refugee community opened with a spirited rendition of Salaam Namaste, celebrating connection across cultures. Later, Ms. Madina, a young Afghan poet, delivered a moving original piece that explored identity, exile and the fragile comfort of India’s welcome.

A short film, Refugee Resilience, was launched during the event, highlighting how shrinking humanitarian funding is affecting displaced communities, even as needs continue to rise.
 

Crafts and Cuisines

Surrounding the formal programme, refugee chefs and artisans presented their work at pop-up stalls—offering traditional foods, handmade textiles, jewellery, and crafts. It was a reminder that refugees bring not only need, but skill, creativity and cultural richness to host communities. 

Participants were also invited to share their reflections on a solidarity message board, and to join the #SolidarityInIndia digital campaign amplifying refugee and host community voices.

Closing the event, Shombi Sharp, United Nations Resident Coordinator in India, addressed the refugee community directly with a message of deep solidarity: “To the refugees here, and the refugee community represented in this room—we are with you. You are not alone. You are the heroes of this story. You are not unsung. You are the path ahead.”

As the world marks World Refugee Day on 20 June, India’s observance offered a clear reminder: behind every displaced person is not just a story of loss—but of resilience. And beside them are people who choose, quietly and persistently, to stand with them.