2015 was sadly marked by further acts of indiscriminate terrorism throughout the world. Today, more than ever, we want to reiterate our solidarity with the victims of these attacks. While terrorism in all of its forms must be stopped and we must not give in to fear, for FIDH and its members, it is also essential that the respect for universal human rights remain central to our action.
2015 was also marked by many human rights victories.
Victories for human rights defenders with the release of Mazen Darwish in Syria, Mr and Mrs Yunus in Azerbaijan and Amin Mekki Medani in Sudan.
Victory for LGBTI rights when the European Court of Human Rights condemned Italy for not recognising the legality of same-sex couples.
Victory for improved corporate accountability when Orange, a telecommunications multinational, announced that it would terminate its contract with Partner, an Israeli telecommunications company operating in the Israeli settlements.
Victory for justice whentwo senior Colombian dignitaries were convicted for spying on human rights advocates and their organisations.
These are only a few of the victories that our Worldwide Movement is proud to have achieved.
It is you who are to be thanked for these victories.
These are only a few of the victories, to which FIDH is proud to have contributed.
Without your support, these achievements would not have been possible.
On behalf of our 178 member organisations and the FIDH team, we would like to thank you for this support and for your commitment to universal human rights, that enables us overcome the many obstacles to our work.
May we enjoy many more victories together in 2016.
Let’s keep our eyes open!
FIDH