GOOD NEWS SLOT FOR JUNE

Our group is all too well aware that we can feel overwhelmed by the grim news of human rights violations across the world so we make a point each month of reporting positive developments, to keep that small candle flickering …

3/6/2012 LATVIA Successful Riga Gay Pride Parade

There was a heavy police presence due to strong resistance from religious and Neo Nazi groups, but no sign of counter-demonstrations as between 300 and 400 people marched through the Latvian capital. Amnesty International welcomes the co-operation between government authorities, organisations and civil society. In previous years the city council and mayor had banned the event, with 30% of citizens opposing the march.

15/5/2012  NORTHERN IRELAND Launch of All-Party Group on Human Trafficking.

This group has been established to promote effective action against the increasing problem of trafficking for sexual and labour exploitation in N. Ireland. This includes criminal activity concerning illegal drug production, fraud and theft.

15/5/2012 PATRICK OKOROAFOR  NIGERIA

AI welcomes the release of Patrick Okoroafor, now aged 31,who was sentenced to death as a juvenile and spent half his life in prison for armed robbery - which he denies. Having been featured in many AI campaigns over the years, he received over 10,000 cards and letters.