World Refugee Day 2026 Celebrations Begin in Addis Ababa with Art Exhibition
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 19 June 2026 – Commemorations marking World Refugee Day 2026 commenced in Addis Ababa with the opening of an art exhibition at the Gebre Kristos Desta Center’s Modern Art Museum at Addis Ababa University.
The exhibition showcases artworks created by refugee artists from diverse nationality backgrounds, highlighting their talent, creativity, and unique perspectives. The exhibition will remain open to the public until 21 June 2026.
The opening ceremony was enlivened by performances from refugee singers, adding color and vibrancy to the event. Representatives from the Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS), Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), UNHCR, refugee committees, refugees, and other invited guests attended the occasion.
This year’s World Refugee Day is being observed under the theme “Until Everyone Is Safe,” underscoring the importance of solidarity, protection, and durable solutions for forcibly displaced people
