Date
Monday
Sep
29

September 29

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!

Yearly Date
Last Sunday in September
Type
Day
Category
Cause

Introduction

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!

World Day of Migrants and Refugees Timeline

1914
World Day Inception
Pope Pius X instituted the World Day of Migrants and Refugees to address the growing number of migrants in Europe.
1939-1945
World War II Displacement
World War II led to unprecedented displacement, highlighting the importance of assistance and respect for migrants and refugees.
1951
Geneva Convention
The Geneva Convention related to the Status of Refugees provided the first legal protection for refugees on a global level.
1980s and 1990s
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.
2015
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.

How to Celebrate World Day of Migrants and Refugees

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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 World Day of Migrants and Refugees is Important

A

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.

B

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.

C

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.

World Day of Migrants and Refugees Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Sep 23
Saturday
2024
Sep 28
Saturday
2025
Sep 27
Saturday
2026
Sep 26
Saturday
2027
Sep 25
Saturday