Global celebrations are taking place today to mark World Refugee Day.

national | miscellaneous | news report Thursday June 20, 2002 15:58 by Mark

Woeld refugee day 2002

In Ireland the occasion was marked by numerous events with particular emphasis on this year's theme which is refugee women.

Right now, 50 million people are uprooted worldwide. 80% of them are women and children.

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Ruud Lubbers said that it must be insured that refugees are given a voice.

Lubbers also criticised donor governments and said he would strive to find durable solutions for refugees, including repatriation, life in the country of first ayslum or resettlement to a third country.