UNHCR's annual Executive Committee meeting next week

The 60th session of UNHCR's 78-member governing body begins Monday here in the Palais des Nations. The Executive Committee reviews and approves the agency's programmes and budget, advises the High Commissioner in the exercise of his functions, in particular on international protection, and discusses a wide range of other issues with UNHCR

The five day meeting will be opened by High Commissioner António Guterres at 10am Monday. A press release on his opening remarks will be issued the same morning and the full text of his speech will be made available in the conference room and on the UNHCR website.

The annual report on international protection, which provides a global review of current refugee and asylum issues, will be presented mid-week by Assistant High Commissioner Erika Feller. UNHCR's Biennial Programme Budget for 2010 and 2011 is due to be presented on Thursday.

A series of side events, on subjects ranging from the refugee emergency in Kenya to alternatives to detention, will be held throughout the week.

At the conclusion of the meeting, High Commissioner Guterres will hold a media briefing. That will take place here on Friday October 2 at 1300.