July 1, 2008

In solidarity with the world refugees, and in partnership with UNHCR, MECC Diakonia & Social Justice Unit and partner humanitarian organizations, Caritas IMC, ArcEn Ciel, AMEL Association, Insan, NTC IECD, MDM AJEM RESTART, Al Majmouaa organized and celebrated the World Refugee Day with a series of activities during June 20-27, 2008.

Official representatives of the Interior Security Forces, national authorities, International Humanitarian Organizations and Regional Director of OHCHR were present. This was an expression of solidarity to around 10.000 refugees officially recognized by UNHCR in Lebanon mostly Iraqi refugees. The World Refugee Day, June 20th, is a recognition of the struggle and courage refugees express in running away their homes and countries, running death and leaving behind everything they have built and strived for.

Arriving to unknown and inhospitable countries where asylum laws do not provide room for these groups to work and subsist, mandate humanitarian organizations like MECC Diakonia and Social Justice, Service to Refugees, Displaced and Migrants program, to respond to the needs of the refugees in moral, financial, health, educational, legal, psychological areas.

At this occasion, official ceremonies were held at Babel Theatre, Hamra, where UNHCR Regional Director Mr. Stephane Jaquemet and NGOs representative Mr. Kamel Sioufi delivered speeches. Refugees took part in the program as well delivering speeches and presenting national folkloric dances, recitations, songs, creating a very enthusiastic and happy atmosphere.

MECC/Service to Refugees, Displace & Migrants (SRDM) offered a special lunch at the Near East School of Theology (NEST) on the 27th of June for around 100 elderly refugees, where addresses were delivered by UNHCR Regional Director, MECC Associate General Secretary and Amel Association Director.

For more information contact: meccls@cyberia.net.lb.

Middle East Council of Churches