Four courageous Pacific Islanders were yesterday, Dec 6 honoured with this year...’s RRRT/SPC Pacific Human Rights Award to mark the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The four will share a total of F$7,500 in recognition of their extraordinary efforts in advancing human rights throughout the region.

Organised by the Pacific Regional Rights Resource Team of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (RRRT/SPC), the awards were presented in a ceremony in Suva last night, Dec 6 by Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat Secretary General Tuiloma Neroni Slade and International Human Rights Officer Tanya Smith of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

PNG Member of Parliament Dame Carol Kidu won the overall award for her outstanding contribution to promoting the rights of Pacific Islanders; Setareki Macanawai of the Pacific Disability Forum and Andonia Piau-Lynch of the Vanuatu Disability Promotion and Advocacy Association received special citations for advancing the rights of persons with disabilities; and Lynnsay Rongokea-Francis, a Cook Islander currently working with the Asia Pacific Forum for Women, Law and Development, received special recognition for her long-standing support for the rights of women.

Speaking on behalf of the panel of judges, Ms Smith said the breadth of nominations was wide as it was varied.

'The nominees have been active in pursuing the rights of women, of the young and the elderly, of people with a disability and of the homeless,' she said.

'They have advocated in favour of the peaceful resolution of conflict, and for democracy, free speech and public accountability. They have put at risk their personal safety and financial security, and have persevered when their goals seemed unattainable.'

Overall, RRRT/SPC received 18 nominations from across the region. Among a number of criteria, nominees must have demonstrated strong commitment to social justice, human rights, democracy and the rule of law, as well as a high degree of commitment in their personal lives and actions to the framework of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

This year's event was supported by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID), the New Zealand Agency for International Development (NZAID), Meridian Consulting and Star Printery Ltd.

RRRT provides human rights training, technical support, and policy and advocacy services tailored specifically for the Pacific region. RRRT is an SPC programme under the Social Resources Division. RRRT/SPV, 06/12/08.