World Refugee Day 2003 National Activity Plan: Romania

UNHCR, with the help of the Ministry of Interior, NGOs and refugees, will organise a workshop on June 14 targeting media professionals to increase their understanding of refugee issues. Romanian reporters who covered the Gulf War and other humanitarian crises will participate as resource persons.

A UNHCR photo and poster exhibition will be held at the National Art Museum in Bucharest from June 17-29.

On June 19, a friendly football match will be held between a refugee team and the national Dinamo's "Old Boys" team in the Dinamo football stadium in downtown Bucharest. The Ministry of Interior, NGOs and UNHCR will support the event.

On June 20, an outdoor fair will take place at Parcul Carol in downtown Bucharest, with an art exhibition, information and entertainment tents, songs and dances by refugee and local children, a roller-skating contest and traditional cuisine.

A concert at the open-air theatre, Arenele Romane, will feature famous Romanian pop and rock bands, including Iris, refugee band Gloria, and the Ministry of Interior's folklore ensemble, Ciocarlia. The concert will run from 7-10 pm. The government, local authorities, NGOs, musicians and UNHCR will all contribute to the event to increase awareness and tolerance for refugees among locals, especially the young generation.

On June 21, Gloria will perform at the jazz club, Green Hours, in Buchares