World Refugee Day 2003: Kyrgyzstan

Cultural performances to mark World Refugee Day in Bishkek. © UNHCR/G.Aitimbetova

© © UNHCR/G.Aitimbetova

Some 100 children of refugees and former refugees (now naturalised citizens) took part in a drawing contest based on the theme, "My Future". Their works were exhibited in the hall of the National History Museum on June 20.

A young refugee taking part in the drawing contest.

© UNHCR/G.Aitimbetova

In an official ceremony on World Refugee Day, certificates of completion were handed over to young Afghans and Chechens who had finished their UNHCR-funded vocational training. A multi-cultural show followed, with performances by young Kyrgyz dancers and refugees from Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Chechnya.

Cultural feast aside, the guests were also treated to a wide variety of cuisines prepared by refugee women of different ethnicities.