Event Details:
Date: 5th of March 2024, Tuesday
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: CR Boothroyd, Portcullis House
We are thrilled to look back on a successful event that brought together a diverse range of voices and perspectives to explore Defending Human Rights in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our esteemed speakers and our exceptional chair, Melanie Gingell, whose invaluable contributions made the event truly memorable.
Throughout the day, our speakers delivered engaging presentations that delved into Defending Human Rights in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq Their expertise, passion, and unique insights captivated our audience and sparked thought-provoking conversations that will continue to resonate long after the event.
We were honored to have Mr. Bashdar Hassan and Mr. Sherwan Taha Ameen as our distinguished speakers, who shared their personal experiences, insights, and strategies for navigating the complex landscape of human rights defense in Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Their unwavering commitment to justice and freedom resonated deeply with all attendees, leaving a lasting impression of inspiration and solidarity.
Mr. Bashdar Hassan, a prominent Iraqi human rights lawyer, fearlessly recounted his experiences leading a legal team in defending journalists, activists, and protesters during the ‘Badinan Prisoners’ case in 2020. Despite facing intimidation and harassment, Mr. Hassan’s dedication to justice has earned him international recognition, including the prestigious Global Human Rights Defender Award from the US State Department in 2023.
Likewise, Mr. Sherwan Taha Ameen, a university lecturer and educator, shared his remarkable journey of enduring two years of imprisonment on charges of high treason for supporting teachers protesting non-payment of salaries in 2020. Mr. Ameen’s resilience and dedication to human rights advocacy have garnered acclaim both locally and internationally, with recognition from prominent figures such as the Pope.
As we reflect on the rich exchange of ideas and the connections forged during the event, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to come together as a community. We look forward to building on the momentum generated and continuing to explore new avenues for collaboration and innovation.
Thank you to our speakers, our chair, and all attendees for your unwavering support and enthusiastic participation. Together, we have made this event a truly inspiring and enriching experience.