From Conflict to Unity -International Human Rights Day

On 10th December IOPHR held a webinar titled “From Conflict to Unity - Learning from Beacons of the Past”, with the aim to commemorate the International Human Rights Day, as well as to celebrate the lives of four renowned human rights advocates in history namely: Mahatma Gandhi, Dr Martin Luther King Jr, Mother Teresa and Dr Noor Ali Tabandeh, and their contributions to the global human rights movement.

Mattie Heaven, the chair of the event, began the webinar with her opening remarks on the importance of International Human Rights Day, and celebrating the day that the United Nations declaration of human rights was signed by different countries as well as the importance of the achievements of the life of four personalities for discussion at this occasion. Ms Heaven also stated that these four individuals should be considered as role models for humanity, and their efforts should not be forgotten.

The webinar was then opened officially by the Lord Mayor of Coventry, Ann Lucas, who stressed on the important principle of the City of Coventry, as a City of Peace and Reconciliation, especially in the context of being bombed heavily during World War II. She explained it is a city that cherishes the history of peace, and reconciliation with other cities and countries, who have suffered in a similar way. As Coventry has a history of welcoming people from other cultures, who are trying to rebuild their lives. This is why Coventry is the first city to twin with other cities, in order to increase unity between different cultures....