We’re thrilled to share that the UK’s favourite illustrator, Quentin Blake, is bringing his magic to Refugee Week 2026.
In a year that marks 75 years since the adoption of the Refugee Convention, we are delighted that Quentin Blake’s illustration will bring the Simple Acts campaign to life, and inviting people of all ages to take part in the festival.
Quentin Blake’s Simple Acts
Courage – Refugee Week 2026 illustration © Quentin Blake
This year, Quentin Blake’s joyful illustrations will sit at the centre of the Simple Acts campaign — a series of nine everyday actions anyone can take to show solidarity with refugees and help build more welcoming communities.
Blake’s bright, playful drawings will appear on postcards, posters and other materials for communities, schools, libraries , arts organisations and individuals to use at their own events. There’s also a special illustration inspired by this year’s Refugee Week theme: Courage.
Meaningfully Marking 75 Years of the Refugee Convention
“Quentin Blake’s illustrations have a rare ability to speak across generations with warmth, joy and humanity. We are incredibly excited to have Quentin Blake’s illustrations for this year’s Refugee Week and Simple Acts campaign, especially in a year that marks 75 years of the Refugee Convention. His drawings capture exactly what this year’s theme, Courage, is about – showing that courage doesn’t only live in big, bold actions, but in everyday moments, and that our communities are strengthened when we choose kindness and choose to welcome.” – Refugee Week’s Coordinator Lara Deffense.
Vicky Tennant, UNHCR’s Representative to the UK, said “UNHCR has proudly supported Refugee Week from its earliest days, and seeing it grow into a nationwide celebration is truly heartening. Partnering with Quentin Blake this year as we mark 75 years of the Refugee Convention feels especially meaningful. His illustrations capture the simple yet powerful ways individuals and communities can show solidarity with people fleeing conflict and violence. The Refugee Convention’s enduring purpose — ensuring everyone has the right to seek asylum and can rebuild their lives safely and with dignity — is only realised when we come together around small but courageous acts of welcome.”
Getting Ready for June
Move Together, Refugee Week Simple Acts 2026 illustration © Quentin Blake
Whether you’re part of a school, library, workplace, arts venue or simply a group of friends wanting to do something positive, there’s time to get involved. Resources are available for free on the Refugee Week website.
Courage isn’t always loud or dramatic. Often, it’s found in small, everyday choices. Everyone is invited to take part in those small acts of courage that help shape kinder, more welcoming communities.
