The Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees
Received the Prize with the goal of shedding light
On the unending plight of post-war millions, foundering among pleas
For political asylum, refusing repatriation, their human right
Under the U.N.’s Declaration of Human Rights from ’48.
Many were fleeing Eastern European communism, overtaking,
While the young sought economic opportunity in order to break
The stranglehold of poverty and persecution. Making
A break for destinations with refugee camps, overloaded,
Millions were still transiting – poor, elderly, sick – all under-funded.
Member nations managed resettlement and efforts at integration
Through unified common actions, but needed U.N. fundraising.
Sympathy with others, despite the walls between nations,
Was required to build a lasting Peace, worth praising.
June Edvenson 