UNHCR, commonly known as the UN refugee agency, is mandated to lead and coordinate international action to protect and assist displaced people around the world and to help find lasting solutions for them.

Set up with modest goals in 1950, UNHCR has since helped tens of millions of people, picking up two Nobel Peace Prizes along the way for its vital humanitarian work.

For those forced to flee their homes, normally because of war or persecution, the UN refugee agency is often the last hope for a return to a normal life. Today, a staff of around 6,300 in more than 110 countries help some 32.9 million people in need.

A wide selection of images from the UN refugee agency’s photo archives can be accessed on Flickr. Our collection of photographs portray the daily lives of uprooted people around the world and show UNHCR staff at work.

Images can serve as a powerful tool to raise awareness about UNHCR and the millions of vulnerable people that the agency helps.

Picture publication: UNHCR photos may be used to promote awareness of refugee issues as long as the credit UNHCR/photographer's name runs next to the picture. UNHCR does not permit other agencies to use UNHCR pictures for campaigns or fund-raising unless we partner specifically on that project with the agency and they seek permission from us ahead of time.