PAX CHRISTI INTERNATIONAL: And the Pax Christi International Peace Award for 2013 goes to…

from Pax Christi International

The 2013 Pax Christi International Peace Award has been granted to the International Memorial Society for its outstanding work in keeping alive the memory of the victims of political repression in Russia’s recent history and for its deep commitment to human rights in the country. The Award has been graciously funded by the Cardinal Bernardus Alfrink Peace Fund since 1988 and it honors contemporary individuals and organisations who make a stand for peace, justice and non-violence in different parts of the world.

Since its inception in the late 1980s the International Memorial Society has been committed to preserving the historical truth about the crimes of totalitarianism and the resistance to it, to perpetuating the memory of the victims, and to offering social support to the survivors. By doing this International Memorial helps support transitional justice efforts and reconciliation processes, as well as the construction of a re-imagined political community, paving the way for future generations and the prevention of future violence.

Pax Christi International also acknowledges Memorial’s comprehensive work in the field of human rights. Through its over 60 member organisations Memorial reveals a continuous dedication to bringing Russian society closer to the ideals of democracy through the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. Its member organisations are widely engaged in research, education, and advocacy. Issues such as the opposition to discrimination against Roma people, protection for refugees and forced migrants and armed conflicts within the Russian Federation are well-known to Memorial members…

Read more about the International Peace Award by clicking here.