UNHCR Representative in Bulgaria Dr. Druke was awarded the Degree of Doctor Honoris Causa of the Shumen University "Konstantin Preslavski." The Academic Council underlined the distinguished achievements of Dr Louise Druke with regard to human rights and refugee protection, as well as her wide-ranging academic accomplishments. In her address at the official ceremony, Druke focused on key refugee issues. "Since 11 September 2001 refugees and asylum seekers have become particularly vulnerable. In the current climate of mistrust and hostility, they can become easily convenient scapegoats, Druke said. The 5th UNHCR Round Table on Bulgaria's EU Accession, European Asylum Harmonisation and International Refugee Protection was held following the Session Solemna.