Last week, a series of events marking World Refugee Day took place in Tartu, Estonia. The events aimed to bring together refugees from Syria, Ukraine, and Iran, along with locals from Estonia and other members of the city’s international community, to raise awareness of the challenges faced by refugees and celebrate their diverse cultures and traditions.
The festivities kicked off on June 15 with the „Green Horizon Fest“ held at Tartu’s Nature House (Loodusmaja). The event featured a diverse market showcasing cuisine from Syria, Palestine, Sri Lanka, and Ukraine, as well as local artisans and emerging Ukrainian businesses led by women. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in guided tours, workshops, and a unique „human library“ where individuals from Ukraine, Syria, and Azerbaijan shared their personal stories with festival-goers.
Mana Taheri, a member of the International Women’s Network (IWNE) in Estonia, highlighted the importance of such events in fostering a sense of community among immigrants. She expressed, „City life and individualism can make us feel alone, especially as immigrants. Being part of such an event lets us feel that we are together and reminds us that, as a community, we can support each other.“
Five days later, on June 20, the official World Refugee Day designated by the United Nations, a documentary film titled „Long Distance Swimmer: Sara Mardini“ was screened at Tartu’s Elektriteater. Following the screening, a live discussion took place with three Syrian guests who shared their personal stories of resilience and adaptation to life in Estonia. Sümeyye Temirov from IWNE moderated the discussion, emphasizing the importance of understanding and solidarity in supporting refugees and migrants within the community.
These events provided refugees and migrants in Tartu with a platform to proudly showcase their rich cultures and traditions, promoting integration, fostering dialogue, and supporting migrant-owned businesses. The gatherings served as a reminder of hope and resilience, highlighting the valuable contributions of refugees and migrants to the community.
Organized by the International Women’s Network in Estonia, with support from the Estonian Refugee Council and NGO Mondo, and funded by UNHCR, the events aimed to provide moral support to forced migrants seeking refuge in Estonia and those who have already made Estonia their new home.
In conclusion, the events marking World Refugee Day in Tartu served as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity, understanding, and support for refugees and migrants. By coming together to celebrate diversity and share stories, the community in Tartu demonstrated the strength that can be found in unity and solidarity.