This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Ron Redmond – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at the press briefing, on 9 February 2001, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

UNHCR's Nansen Medal, the agency's 47-year-old annual prize given to individuals and groups who excel in supporting refugee causes, has been re-named the Nansen Refugee Award. Also, in a departure from the current practice, the medal will now be awarded during an annual ceremony on June 20th which marks the World Refugee Day. Until now, the Nansen Medal has been given during the annual sessions of the UNHCR Executive Committee – the agency's governing body which meets in early October. The change in name and timing of the award stems from an effort by UNHCR and the Nansen Refugee Award Committee to establish a more visible link between the Nansen Award and refugees. The award, which consists of a medal and a monetary award of approximately US$100,000, is named after Fridtjof Nansen – the Norwegian arctic explorer and the world's first global refugee official.

The deadline for nominations is April 30th. Nominations can be made by individuals or organisations. They should be addressed to Ms. Nada Merheb, the Secretary of the Nansen Refugee Award Committee at +41 22 739 7723 or fax: +41 22 739 7302, E-mail Ms. Nada Merheb

Story date: 9 February 2001
UNHCR Briefing Notes