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World Day of Migrants and Refugees

Join us in honoring the courage and resilience of migrants and refugees around the globe on World Day of Migrants and Refugees!

Sunday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATELast Sunday in September

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYSocial Justice

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Join us in honoring the courage and resilience of migrants and refugees around the globe on World Day of Migrants and Refugees! Held on the last Sunday in September, this poignant day has been observed since 1914 when it was instituted by Pope Pius X as a direct response to the growing number of migrants in Europe leaving their homelands seeking refuge and better living conditions. Over a century later, the relevance of this day is more profound than ever, as it shines a much-needed spotlight on our collective responsibility towards our brothers and sisters displaced from their homes. So mark your calendars and let's stand in solidarity with these brave souls on the World Day of Migrants and Refugees!

TIMELINE

World Day of Migrants and Refugees Timeline

World Day Inception

Pope Pius X instituted the World Day of Migrants and Refugees to address the growing number of migrants in Europe.

World War II Displacement

World War II led to unprecedented displacement, highlighting the importance of assistance and respect for migrants and refugees.

Geneva Convention

The Geneva Convention related to the Status of Refugees provided the first legal protection for refugees on a global level.

Increasing Global Conflicts

Civil wars and political unrest in Africa, Asia, and the Balkans led to a significant rise in the number of refugees worldwide.

Refugee Crisis

The Syrian civil war and other conflicts sparked a refugee crisis, the most severe since World War II, underscoring the relevance of this day.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World Day of Migrants and Refugees

Attend a cultural event

Many communities host cultural events that highlight the contributions of migrants and refugees. Attending these events is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of their unique experiences and cultures.

DONATE

Donate to a relevant charity

There are numerous charities dedicated to assisting refugees and migrants, providing aid like food, medical care, and housing. Consider making a donation in honor of this special day.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer your time

Many non-profit organizations rely heavily on volunteers to help with their missions. Find out how you can lend a hand and contribute directly to the cause.

READ

Read and share stories

Educating oneself and others is a powerful tool for creating empathy and understanding. Read accounts of migrants and refugees, then share these stories with friends, family, or on social media.

HOST

Host a cultural exchange dinner

Invite friends and family to celebrate with a potluck-style dinner, where every dish is from a different culture or country. It's a delicious way to open discussions about migration, displacement, and the beauty of different cultures.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why World Day of Migrants and Refugees is Important

Celebrating cultural diversity

The World Day of Migrants and Refugees allows us to celebrate the beautiful array of cultures, traditions, and customs that exists in our world. Observing this day provides an opportunity to understand the transformative role of cultural exchanges in fostering acceptance and unity among communities.

Creating awareness and understanding

World Day of Migrants and Refugees is a global observance that creates a platform for dialogue, increased understanding, and empathy towards migrants and refugees. This unique day shines a light on the strength, courage, and tenacity of these individuals, highlighting their unique stories and experiences.

Promoting humanitarian action

This special day encourages and promotes action, such as donations and volunteering. By contributing to charities dedicated to assisting migrants and refugees, you are directly impacting the quality of life and well-being of these resilient individuals.