World Refugee Day 2003: Turkmenistan

Visitors buying products made by refugee women. © UNHCR/H.Halov

© © UNHCR/H.Halov

Ceremonies were organised in Ashgabat and Türkmenabat by UNHCR together with refugees and partner organisations. Government officials, delegations from the National Institute of Democracy and Human Rights, World Turkmen Humanitarian Association, NGOs, and UN agencies were present.

Some 80 drawings from the contest were exhibited.

© UNHCR/H.Halov

Over 100 young refugees participated in a drawing competition launched by UNHCR and its partner organisations. More than 80 drawings from the contest were exhibited on 20 June.

Refugee girls performing traditional dance.

© UNHCR/H.Halov

Tajik and Afghan refugee youths performed songs, dances, and poems at folklore events in Ashgabat and Türkmenabat.

Refugee women displayed and sold their handmade carpets, blankets, dresses, pillows, and caps.