“I think we are all aware of the fact that war is the worst, the greatest violation of human rights”, said Balian in his opening remarks. He then proceeded to ponder the question of what can be done to make sure the world has more heroes like the Aurora Prize finalists.
Shamil Idriss, President & CEO of Search for Common Ground, reflected upon the forces that are in play on the global arena right now. “One of the words that has been mentioned a couple of times today already is the word “fear”. I’m really focused on fear and the degree of insecurity that there is in the world today,” he said. Idriss also mentioned that many global organizations that defend the peace and human rights are struggling today, but reminded the audience that historically those organizations have nevertheless have been quite efficient.
“For all the flaws of the United Nations, European Union, African Union and many other institutions, they were tremendously successful since the end of World War II in dealing with and trying to prevent interstate conflict,” he emphasized.
American Jewish World Service Global Ambassador Ruth W. Messinger talked about the cycle of giving that can be created and promoted by proper coverage. “That’s what we need – to tell the stories, to tell the success stories, to highlight the individual ways in which we can all make a difference, because that encourages more of that. It’s those people that push governments to step up and make a difference,” she said.
Elisa Massimino, President & CEO of Human Rights First, expressed her concern with the fact that many people still see refugees as a negative influence on their countries. “I come from a country that was founded by refugees. We do a lot of work in the United States reminding people that this is what has made the country stronger,” said Massimino.
“Citizens react negatively to migration. They feel their governments are not responsibly managing and handling that migration. It’s important for a government to be able to instill confidence that they know what they’re doing,” she added in conclusion.