20th June, 2013 World Refugee Day Event: Umphiem and Mae La Camp
Three hundred refugees in Umphiem camp united on 20 June 2013 in recognition of World Refugee Day. The event was organized by the Camp Committee, CBOs and some NGOs. Thai local authorities, UNHCR and other NGOs joined the event. During the event different groups and organizations, including KWO, gave speeches. KSNG camp based students’ group preformed a drama about unsafe conditions such as land mines, which make it dangerous for refugees to return (to Burma). The event also showcased traditional dance and song from different ethnic groups in the camp and refugee children.
In Mae La camp approximately 3,000 refugees and community members came together on 20 June 2013 in recognition of World Refugee Day. The day was organized by the Camp Committee and camp based CBOs such as KWO, KSNG and some NGOs. CBOs, NGOs, UNHCR, KRC and local authorities participated in the event. Activities included a drama about how people become refugees by HI camp based staffs and traditional song and dance performances by a few ethnic groups in camp. The Thai authorities were present and received thanks from different organizations working on the border for hosting refugees in Thailand.
Youth from both camps participated in a Drawing Competition. Three winners were selected from each camp and presented with prizes. All of the contestants also received a small gift.
