Press Statement
Adam Ereli, Deputy Spokesman
Washington, DC
June 20, 2006
World Refugee DayThe United States joins the international community in commemorating World Refugee Day. The United States has a proud tradition of welcoming refugees to our shores. Since World War II, more refugees have resettled in the United States than in any other country, including more than 2.6 million refugees since 1975, and over 53,000 from 55 countries in 2005 alone.
The State Department provides over $800 million annually for programs that help the most vulnerable with their basic needs and that provide lasting solutions for millions of refugees. In 2005, we contributed over $300 million to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), making us the single largest donor to this global leader in refugee protection and assistance.
As the Secretary has said, the commitment of the United States to protecting and assisting refugees is deep and abiding. This commitment is part of our nation’s history and it goes to the very core of our values. Today we call on all nations to join us in this effort by respecting the rights of refugees and providing them with the assistance they need.
2006/630
Released on June 20, 2006
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