In a year that ushered in the rise of the far right; ever-shrinking spaces for human rights defenders; and a rise in hate crime on the streets of the UK, your support as a member of the Urgent Action Network became more crucial than ever before.

We just wanted to take a moment to remind you: your actions are powerful.

You may not always realise it but when you respond to Urgent Actions you are making a huge impact on the life of individuals enduring grave injustices and abuse.

And for that, we thank you.

This year, you joined other activists in responding to nearly 300 Urgent Actions, targeting authorities in 73 countries on behalf of children, refugees, doctors, artists, lawyers and journalists.

And your words made a real difference.

Just one example is the case of Venezuelan LGBTI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex) rights activist, Rosmit Mantilla. Not only was Rosmit granted the medical care he needed, but was then released from prison in November.

A message of thanks from Rosmit

We have a lot more to achieve in 2017, but together we can continue to protect individuals wherever justice, fairness, freedom and truth are denied.

Here are all the Urgent Actions that were sent out in 2016

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