Defend International has joined other NGOs in 110 countries to mark the Global Week of Action Against Gun Violence, 10 – 16 May. As part of Defend International’s activities during the week, Dr. Widad is lobbying the governments in the MENA region.
Syria: Arbitrary Detention of Leading Human Rights Activist
Defend International (DI) has been informed by reliable sources of the case of Mr. Abdul Al-Rahman, a leading human rights activist in Syria. DI believes he is a prisoner of conscience, detained solely for his peaceful human right activities.
Iran: Mr. Hossein Khezri Was Executed
Defend International was informed by reliable sources that Mr. Hossein Khezri, a Kurdish political activist was at imminent risk of execution on 14 April 2010. Unfortunately he was executed on 15 January 2011, and neither his family nor his lawer were given prior warning.
Syria: Excessive Use of Force by Security Forces during Newroz Festivities
Defend International condemns the killing of three Kurdish youth by Syrian security forces in the city of Ar-raqqah during the 2010 celebrations of Newroz. The Syrian government must stop the cycle of violence perpetrated by members of the security forces who are supposed to be protecting ALL civilians.