Today, on World Refugee Day, the Estonian Refugee Council hosted a youth-focused, activity-filled event in Tondiraba Park, Tallinn to show support for those who have been forced to leave their homes and to raise awareness of people with a refugee background in our communities.

More than 122 million people around the world have been forcibly displaced from their homes due to persecution, conflict, or natural disasters. Nearly 50 million of them are young people under the age of 18.

Sigrid Solnik, Head of Estonian programmes at the Estonian Refugee Council, called on everyone to notice and support those with a refugee background in our communities – especially the young people who have had to endure challenging and often traumatic experiences. “Becoming an adult is difficult enough on its own. Young people already face confusion around identity, belonging, language, and education. But refugee-background youth are particularly vulnerable – they’ve had to walk a much tougher road than their peers. This year, we’re focusing on how they adapt to new environments, on their mental health, and on ensuring they receive the support and care they need.”

The youth-led event in Tondiraba Park welcomed people of all ages and language backgrounds to celebrate diversity and show solidarity with those who’ve had to leave their homes. Throughout the day, participants enjoyed a wide range of engaging activities for both younger and older children. These include a fun and challenging outdoor game that tests mental and physical skills, exciting language-learning activities, quizzes on migration-related topics, a solidarity wall for sharing messages, and the chance to watch street art being created live by local artists. A DJ will add to the summer vibe with music throughout the day.

The World Refugee Day youth event was supported by the City of Tallinn. The day was organised by the Estonian Refugee Council in cooperation with Tallinn youth centres, UNHCR, IZUM youth club, and the Integration Foundation.