Established in the UK in 1998, Refugee Week takes place every year around World Refugee Day (20th June) and has since grown into a global movement with over 2 million participants, across over 20 countries.
This year’s theme is Courage. The word courage comes from the Latin cor, meaning “heart.”
For refugees around the world, 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.
At a time when some seek to divide and blame, Refugee Week 2026 calls us to come together and share the courage to welcome, to stand for what we believe in, and to celebrate culture and community – to be joyful, imagine new possibilities, dream, heal, and connect.
Courage isn’t always loud or bold. It can be found in simple acts: opening your door to a neighbour, trying new food, reading a book, or watching a film that changes your view of the world. It can be speaking up, asking for help, sharing your story – or simply having the courage to be yourself.
Share Your Story – we would love to hear from communities and parishioners across the diocese. You can contact us via communications@diocesehn.org.uk
Courage – Refugee Week Illustration © Quentin Blake