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World Refugee Day marked in Kazakhstan

Events marking World Refugee Day in Kazakhstan started in Almaty, where most of the refugees reside, and continued in Astana, bringing together representatives of the Government, media, NGOs and refugees themselves to commemorate this special occasion.

"World Refugee Day is not a day to be celebrated, but a day for remembering those, who flee from persecution, trying to save their lives. This year World Refugee Day is devoted to the theme of family, which is important to every individual on Earth, and especially for refugees, whose families are often torn apart by war and conflicts. According to the UNHCR Global Trends report, which was released yesterday, every four seconds in the world one person becomes forcibly displaced, which means that for one hour 900 people lose their homes, properties and loved ones" - underlined Mr. Saber Azam, Regional Representative/Regional Coordinator in his welcoming speech.

Promo action, conducted at the Esentai Shopping Mall drew the attention of the general public to the issues of refugees. The newly appointed Goodwill Ambassador for Kazakhstan, Mr. Aidos Sagat took part in the promo action, raising awareness of the plight of refugees. The promo action continued in Astana, in one of the largest shopping malls.

To commemorate the WRD this year, UNHCR in Kazakhstan made a special documentary "Road of Hope", devoted to the stories of refugees residing in Kazakhstan, and the cooperation of UNHCR with the Government of the country to solve the refugee issues. The documentary was premiered in Astana and Almaty for Government officials, media, and UN sister agencies, as well as the general public.

Mr. Saber Azam added that " Commemoration of World Refugee Day with such a documentary about this beautiful country goes hand in hand with the extra-ordinary spirit of hospitality and generosity that the people and Government of Kazakhstan have demonstrated with regard to those who have been up rooted in their countries of origin and come here to seek protection".