World Refugee Day 2003: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Thousands of people enjoying music and dance performances by Britain's refugee communities during Celebrating Sanctuary. © UNHCR/S.Meng

© © UNHCR/S.Meng

Thousands of people flocked to the South Bank in London to join in Celebrating Sanctuary, the launch event of Britain's annual Refugee Week (June 16-23). The week, which is jointly organised by UNHCR, UK for UNHCR and a group of refugee NGOs, celebrates the positive contribution that refugees make to Britain, and promotes understanding about the reasons why people seek sanctuary.

Passers-by admiring the letters, decorated by children, that formed the words "Respect Refugees" during Celebrating Sanctuary.

© UNHCR/S.Meng

Celebrating Sanctuary featured over 20 music and dance acts by Britain's refugee communities, performing across four stages and introduced by comedians, refugees and celebrity supporters.