The World - News from Oct. 7, 1986

Canada was awarded the Nansen Medal, the highest distinction bestowed by the United Nations for aid to refugees. The annual award, previously accorded only to individuals, went to the people of Canada “in recognition of the major and sustained contribution made to the cause of refugees in their country and throughout the world over the years,” said the announcement, made in Geneva. U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Jean-Pierre Hocke said Canada has always supported international efforts on behalf of refugees and has an honorable record of receiving people fleeing persecution in all parts of the world.