World Refugee Day 2004: Colombia

The commemoration of World Refugee Day at Bogota's National Museum was organised with the participation of the diplomatic community, an Ombudsman, government officials, NGOs, representatives of the internally displaced population, artists and business leaders.

A UNHCR official made a speech about the country's response to internal displacement. Posters showing Colombian refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) were exhibited during the celebration.

A concert was performed by the "Sounds of Resistance" orchestra. Pop singer Fonseca also participated in the event.

A press conference was held in Bogota on June 16. The point of discussions included the evolution of the country's response to the challenges of preventing internal displacement and helping IDPs exercise their rights.

A rally was organised by UNHCR to sensitise the city's population about displacement. Thirteen teams participated in the event.

A UNHCR's photo exhibition, "Through the Eyes of Colombian refugees", was on display at Apartadó's Public Library until June 22. The exhibition was held with the objective of raising public awareness about the plight of Colombian IDPs and refugees.