World Refugee Day 2003: Azerbaijan

On 18 June, UNHCR held a press conference, which was attended by over 30 journalists. In addition to UNHCR, the Chief of the Department for Internally Displaced Persons, Refugees and Migration of the Cabinet of Ministers also spoke at the conference.

Also on 18 June, the Ombudsman organised a seminar on refugee and internally displaced person (IDP) issues, targeting government officials from the relevant departments and NGO staff.

The Norwegian Refugee Council held an event for youth in a central park of Baku. A seminar on refugee and IDP issues was organised by the Danish Refugee Council, the International Eurasia Pess Fund, and the Caucasus Refugee/ IDP NGO Network.

The main event on 20 June was a celebration in the evening attended by some 250 guests. Speeches were delivered by UNHCR representative and the deputy prime minister and head of the State Committee for IDPs and Refugees. Azeri and Afghan children performed at a mini concert, followed by a reception.