Convention on Human Rights Defenders(HRDs)

Dear Friends,

Nation states around the world are increasingly realising and acknowledging the role and contribution of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) in building a society based on human dignity and justice. At the same time HRDs are increasingly subject to threats, intimidation and reprisal by state and non state actors. Ms. Margaret Sekaggya, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of HRDs, in her recent address to the General Assembly, and her oral statement focused on the need to heighten the visibility of UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders. She highlighted that twelve years after the adoption of this instrument, many States and human rights defenders still do not know enough about the protections and responsibilities set out in it.

PVCHR realises that the voices and experiences of HRDs, working in the most adverse conditions, in the remotest part of India need a broad platform to express them. Their courage and struggle should be highlighted and recognised. To make a concrete beginning in this direction, PVCHR invites you to participate in the “Convention on Human Rights Defenders” on 9th December, 2011 as International Human Rights Defender Day at Varanasi. This day long deliberations will be attended by HRDs, HRIs, NGOs and other civil society groups. A rally will be organised the following day to observe “International Human Rights Day”.

Please confirm your participation by 25th November, 2011.

Thanking you.

Yours sincerely

Dr. Lenin
Please see the link:
http://www.pvchr.net/2011/03/declare-9-december-as-human-rights_19.html
http://muslim-minority.blogspot.com/2011/03/declare-9-december-as-human-rights_19.html