World Refugee Day 2004 National Activity Plan: Ecuador

A Refugee Movie Festival will be held from 16-22 June, with movies directed by refugees such as Milos Forman, Raúl Ruiz, Andrei Tarkovski, Billy Wilder, Fritz Lang and Luis Puenzo. Also featured is "Desplazados", a documentary showing UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie's visit to Ecuador in 2002. A photo exhibit will take place in the cinema halls with the cooperation of the cinema, "Ocho y Medio", and Bureau Comunicación.

The international photo exhibit, "Arrancados de Raíz", depicting the struggle of refugees in the region, will also be presented, in collaboration with the Museo de la Ciudad.

An essay contest with the theme, "Refugee Youth", will be organised for high schools students. The winner will receive a collection of novels and essays by Ecuadorian authors. The three best essays will be published by UNHCR in its newsletter, "Huellas".

A bazaar with handicrafts made by refugees will be set up in the UN Common House in Quito.

In Ibarra and Lago Agrio, UNHCR will organise events with sports, food and a clown show for children.