Sudan Human Rights Defenders Forum (SHRD- Forum)

(Khartoum, 12 December 2008)

Following the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in 2005, ending more than 20 years of conflict in South Sudan, the peace building processes in Sudan remain challenging. In addition, this is in contrast to the expectations and hopes invested in the 2005 Sudan National Interim Constitution.

Individuals and organizations working and advocating for human rights across the country continue to face multiple risks to their activities and lives.
It was shocking for all of us, as Human Rights defenders (HRD), the arrest and torture of our colleagues Osman Hummaida , Abdelmonim El Gak and Amir Suliman.

Hummaida and El Gak were subjected to severe torture by Sudan National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS). These undertaking by the Sudanese authorities is a clear setback from the possibilities of democratic transformation and peace in Sudan.

We would like to emphasize here, according to the International declaration for Human Rights Defenders provided by the United Nations General Assembly, the entitlement and right of Sudanese people to defend human rights and stand against human rights violations as it is the obligation of the state to protect human rights defenders and not to endanger their lives and work.

The strong solidarity and support shown by human rights defender in Sudan and around the world was evident on the legitimacy and importance of the work of human rights defenders.

Therefore, as Sudanese organizations and individuals working in the field of human rights in Sudan, we have formed the Sudan Human Rights Defender Platform. The Platform will work to enhance and support HRDs work across the country to reduce/end human rights violations in collaboration with Sudanese and International Human Rights defender groups and individuals.

The founders of the Sudan Human rights Defenders call upon, all individual defenders and organizations to join the platform and work for its success. The Platform will initiate links with all regional and international HRD networks around the world.

1. Sudan Human Rights Monitor.
2. Khartoum Center for Human Rights and Environmental Development.
3. Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA).
4. Babkeri Badri Scientific Association for Women.
5. Gender Center for Research and Training.
6. SALMA Women Resource Center.
7. Alkhatim Adlan Center for Enlightment and Human Development.
8. Darfur Bar Association.
9. Muta’aqwenat Group.
10. DIAR Association .