World Refugee Day 2004: Armenia

UNHCR participated in the morning TV programme on the Armenian national TV channel. During the programme, a UNHCR official answered questions related to housing projects and the local integration of refugees. In addition, some Armenian TV stations broadcast a UNHCR spot for 15 days.

An exhibition-sale of refugees' art works was also organised to show that the most appropriate durable solution for ethnic Armenian refugees from Azerbaijan is local integration in Armenia. The exhibition was appreciated; some of the refugees were asked to make some crafts for souvenir shops.

A concert took place on pro-bono basis for both refugees and locals. The concert was performed by young musicians from Spivakov Foundation. Classical music including arias from famous operas was played. Government officials and representatives of international organisations also attended the concert. At the end, the children received some presents prepared by UNHCR.

UNHCR, in cooperation with the Danish Refugee Council and CRINGO (the Caucasian Refugee and Internally Displaced Person NGO Network), organised events in Vanadzor and Kapan. The events included tree planting in both cities. The lane of trees was called a "Lane of Peace". In addition, in Vanadzor, the yard in front of buildings built by UNHCR was equipped with a pavillion, benches and horizontal bars for children. The events in both places were followed by performances at cultural centres with the attendance of the public at large, as well as government officials.