World Refugee Day 2003 National Activity Plan: Switzerland
World Refugee Day 2003 National Activity Plan: Switzerland
On June 18, UNHCR will participate in the official opening of a new sports stadium in Geneva, joining in a day of celebrations that include a performance by the music group, 4Refugees.
On June 20, a classic concert will take place at UNHCR's Headquarters in Geneva in benefit of refugee youth in Kasulu camp (Tanzania) and Largo camp (Sierra Leone). Mezzo-soprano Brigitte Bellays, Saint-Pierre Fusterie and Pays de Gex Orchestras will perform for free. UNHCR's first DVD, "Support of Refugees", will be unveiled at the event, held against the backdrop of an art exhibition by a Cambodian refugee artist. UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Adel Imam will also be present.
On the same night, public buildings and installations throughout Switzerland will be lit up in UN blue in honour of World Refugee Day.
During this period, World Refugee Day posters will be on display on the public transport system throughout Switzerland, while Geneva's Mont Blanc bridge will be decorated with UNHCR flags to raise visibility and public awareness.
On June 25, the Nansen Refugee Award will be presented to Dr Annalena Tonelli, a humanitarian worker in Somalia. The ceremony at Musée Ariana will be attended by High Commissioner Ruud Lubbers, UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Barbara Hendricks and Swiss Confederation President Pascal Couchepin.