From Refugee Week:
As Refugee Week begins, we are mindful that this year’s festival takes place at a time when some communities are experiencing rising hostility, division and uncertainty. In recent weeks, we have seen incidents of racism, violence and attempts to disrupt events that celebrate welcome, inclusion and belonging.
It is precisely in moments like these that Refugee Week matters most.
For 28 years, Refugee Week has brought people together through art, culture, food, film, music, sport and conversation. It creates opportunities to meet neighbours, hear new stories, experience different cultures and discover what connects us. Each year, millions of people take part in tens of thousands of events and activities, helping to build stronger communities across the country and internationally.
Refugee Week is a celebration of the enormous contributions that people seeking sanctuary have made – and continue to make – to every part of our society.
It is also a chance to deepen understanding of why people are forced to flee, and to recognise the importance of the right for displaced people to seek safety, dignity and opportunity.
This year’s theme, Courage, feels especially resonant.
For refugees courage is often a daily necessity. It is the courage to face unknown journeys, learn new languages, navigate unfamiliar systems, or simply to wake up each morning and step into an uncertain world.
But courage belongs to all of us.
Courage to welcome, to stand for what we believe in, and to celebrate culture and community.
At a time when some seek to divide and blame, Refugee Week offers an opportunity to broaden our horizons and discover the richness that emerges when people from different backgrounds share creativity and connection. This year also marks 75 years since the Refugee Convention – a landmark agreement affirming that those forced to flee deserve protection, dignity, and hope.
As Refugee Week 2026 begins, we invite everyone to celebrate the courage that lives within us all – join us and take part!
Refugee Week 2026: 15–21 June
#RefugeeWeek #Courage #SimpleActs
If you are hosting or participating in an event this year, read the Refugee Week Showing Solidarity and Staying Safe resource, which offers an overview of Refugee Week alongside practical guidance for organisers. It explores why the festival matters in today’s context, how it helps build connection and counter hostility, and shares simple, proportionate tips for planning safe, welcoming events – from risk awareness and safeguarding to managing online spaces and protecting personal information.
Refugee Week UK is a partnership project coordinated by Counterpoints Arts. Alongside our national partners, we work together to make a positive impact.
