Commemorating the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention
On 28 October, the Embassy of Ireland, together with UNHCR, hosted a special event to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention.
Held at the residence of Ambassador Ragnar Almqvist, the event reflected on Ireland's reception of Hungarian refugees following the 1956 Revolution, when 548 Hungarians found refuge in Ireland, and the enduring importance of international solidarity and refugee protection.
We were honoured to welcome Deputy State Secretary István Lakatos on behalf of Hungary's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside UNHCR Representative Nicole Epting, who delivered opening remarks with Ambassador Almqvist.
We were particularly delighted to welcome Dr Vera Sheridan of Dublin City University, author of Suitable Strangers, whose research sheds light on Ireland's reception of Hungarian refugees in 1956, including their experiences in Ireland's first refugee camp and the lasting connections forged between our two countries.
The panel discussion also featured contributions from the Hungarian Helsinki Committee and UNHCR, exploring the legacy of the 1956 refugee crisis and the continuing relevance of the Refugee Convention in addressing today's displacement challenges.
Guests also enjoyed a taste of our shared history through Hungarian confectioner Henry Spelter's famous Mary Cake.
Our sincere thanks to UNHCR, our distinguished speakers and everyone who joined us for this meaningful commemoration!
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