Media page: '70 years protecting people forced to flee'
On 14 December 1950, the UN General Assembly adopted the Statute of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees – formally presenting the new agency with its mission.
On the same day, it published the draft convention relating to the status of refugees, which was finalised and prepared for signing in July 1951.
UNHCR’s 70th anniversary is an opportunity to recognize the dedication, courage and contributions of those who work for our organization around the world. It is a chance for us to travel back in time, reflect on our present work and draw inspiration for the future.
Download multimedia
- All content (photos, videos and documents)
- Who We Are Film
- Archive photos by decade
- Selection of archive documents
- Resolutions relating to UNHCR's statute and the draft Refugee Convention (December 1950)
- Archive film footage by decade
Media Contacts
- Barney Thompson, Senior Global Writer, [email protected], +447719553786
- Spokespeople in different countries: https://www.unhcr.org/international-media-contacts.html
- About archival content: Montserrat Canela Garayoa, Chief of Section - Records and Archives, [email protected], [email protected]
- About UNHCR photos: UNHCR Photo Unit, [email protected]
- About the Who we are video: Michelle Hoffman, Senior Video Production Officer, [email protected], +41 79 643 3919
Related news and stories
News Releases
Opening Remarks by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi at joint press point with European Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson
Stories
'It's a wonderful job, but I'd love not to do it'
News Releases
Pandemic threatens progress on refugee admissions through family, work, study permits
Stories
Many stateless in UK face a tortuous road to recognition
Stories
Data reveals impacts of climate emergency on displacement
News Releases