What does DP stand for on Norwegian/Russian Passport 1955

[VICTORIA]

In 1955 Liverpool I was shown a passport by a seaman in Liverpool His name was"Nils" On this passport was stamped  DP He was very upset about this endorsement. He was 22yrs. His parents were one Norwegian,and one Russian.I always thought this meant displaced person. I was told that this could also have bearing on his
character???Has would it be possible to have no country to belong to in 1955??Does anyone know what this could have meant.
Victoria

[Hackstaple]

This may have been, and probably was, a Seaman's Passport or Merchant Marine Card or Z Card - all names for the same thing. it was unusual for merchant seamen to carry regular passports. The Z card was recognized world-wide.
Yes there were millions of displaced people around in 1955 - not as many as today.
His status may have been established by a declaration issued by the UNHCR - refugees aid. His parentage would only have been assumed unless he could produce proper proof of birth and, obviously, he could not. Aberdeen has a large and important Norwegian Seaman's Institute which is long-established. If anyone can help you it is there.

[VICTORIA]

Thank you ever so much for this prompt information. How do I contact Norwegian seamans institute in Aberdeen??
Victoria

[Hackstaple]

Sorry - you will have to search the Web for that - I am sure it is till there somewhere.

[VICTORIA]

Thank you will start search.
Victoria

[stambourne]

 Hi there,
That Norwegian bit rings a bell,  I think I'm right that
there was once a thing called a 'Nansen Passport',
looked very official, often issued to Displaced Persons
signed by famous Norwegian explorer, Nansen, and
gave 'stateless' persons some sort of paperwork to travel about with. Whilst of no real standing, this document was treated as helpful at the frontiers of many countries.

regards

Stambourne

[VICTORIA]

Hi, do you know who would have issued this passport.

Victoria   

[VICTORIA]

Hi I have returned for search.  I completed a form sent to UNHCR to see if they can help. I would appreciate any help.
Thank you.