"In the Eye of the Storm" is the second annual compilation of attacks
documented by OMCT and the members of SOS torture network against
human rights defenders.
Last year, after the 12th session of the UN working group on a draft
declaration for human rights defenders, OMCT published a first
compilation of cases of violations against human rights defenders
between January 1992 and March 1996. This second report has been
prepared according to the same criteria.
Since the first publication, the situation has not changed, at least
11 people have died defending the rights of others. Over 107 pages,
the report covers grave violations against many hundreds of men and
women in 52 countries. The abuses cover amongst others, torture,
disappearance and summary execution.
The aim of the report is to demonstrate the seriousness of the
phenomenon and the imperative need to take urgent action at all
levels.
The report is not exhaustive, however, it represents a powerful
indication of the gravity of the situation and the diversity of grave
violations that human rights defenders face in carrying out their
vital work. It is a reflection of an extremely complex phenomenon of
violence and permits an overview of the methods used to intimidate and
abuse those who defend the rights of others.
OMCT believes that the protection of the rights of those who defend
and monitor the rights of others is the only hope for any real respect
for human rights throughout the world.
Eric Sottas
Director
Copies are available from the International Secretariat.
Fax: 0041 22 733 1051
Ph: 0041 22 733 3140
OMCT@iprolink.ch
Publications@omct.org