Tactics and tools for the protection
of Human Rights Defenders

13 January 2012

The Cochabamba Permanent Human Rights Assembly (APDH) recently presented several recognition awards to show gratitude to persons who have stood out for their work with vulnerable sectors of the Bolivian society. Br. Ignacio Harding OFM, Coordinator of Franciscans International Bolivia, was among those recognised for their outstanding contribution to the community. 

The recipients of the awards were recognised not only for defending human rights, but also for their work in actively seeking to promote people’s capacity to advocate on behalf of themselves. 

Br. Iggy has worked with FI since its beginnings as a Board Member, a co-director in the New York Office (1995 -2001), and currently as a coordinator for FI-Bolivia.

Upon accepting the award, Br. Iggy spoke about the importance of having a special focus on the impoverished human rights work. He explained that the powerful sectors of society have many resources to be able to defend their rights, whereas the poor and marginalised generally have no access to lawyers and other means to make their just claims. The role of those committed to promoting human rights must be to stand beside those that have nowhere else to turn. He also explained that the special mission of Franciscans is to promote reverence for all creation (mother earth), to eradicate poverty, and promote human rights and integral human development.

The awards ceremony was part of a series of events held on 9 and 10 December 2011 to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. There was also a solemn Eucharist in the Cochabamba Cathedral and a public fair with presentations from different organisations and institutions working for human rights.

FI-Bolivia organised a public workshop for the participants from local parishes and human rights organisations to learn more about the work of FI and how they can collaborate.

Go to original article=105&cHash=53a5a583be94e938b660cd97b3945f80]