World Refugee Day 2004 National Activity Plan: Iran

On 20 June, the opening of an exhibition of drawings by Afghan refugee children on the theme of "My country, my home" will take place in the Sofreh Gallery in Tehran. Representatives from the Iranian government, United Nations, embassies and the media, as well as Afghan children and their families, will be invited to the opening ceremony.

The UNHCR Representative and a government representative will make speeches. A jury composed of well-known Iranian and Afghan artists and UNHCR staff will select the 10 best drawings. The UNHCR Representative will award the winners with school supplies.

During the one-week exhibition, drawings by refugee children who are currently under cancer treatment at Malak, a medical charity organisation, will be on display for sale. All proceeds will go to Mahak.

UNHCR will organise a "Come and Meet" visit for Afghan representatives from Herat, who will come and talk to Afghan refugees in Iran about conditions in their home region during the week around World Refugee Day.

Several events will also be held in the different provinces, including a cultural event based on literacy. World Refugee Day events that will take place at Dogharoun border exit stations will be covered by the media.