The New Tactics in Human Rights International Symposium was the first training meeting of its kind, bringing together human rights activists from a broad range of disciplines to focus not on a single issue or region but on a full range of tactical possibilities and possible solutions. About 450 human rights advocates from 89 countries, representing fields as diverse as domestic violence and sustainable development, gathered for four days in Ankara, Turkey. The full schedule included five tactical workshop sessions, with a total of 35 tactical and strategic workshops, five plenary sessions for a broader look at effective strategies in human rights struggles, two regional caucus meetings and plenty of informal networking opportunities.
A major goal for the Symposium was for it to serve as a springboard for further work based on the principles of the New Tactics project, including collaboration among diverse groups of human rights advocates and maximizing tactical flexibility. Symposium participants began laying the foundation for future cooperation before they even left Ankara. They gathered twice during the Symposium in regional caucuses, where they could build networks and make plans for collaboration, and made connections in workshops, over shared meals and at social events. Many participants have already told us about specific plans they have made for new networks and joint projects. The challenge facing the New Tactics project now is to build on these successes by ensuring that the project’s partners have what they need to take greater ownership and initiative in the project, and working to ensure that the project’s tools and conceptual framework contribute to the effectiveness of human rights advocates as they take the next steps to implement ideas the project has sparked.
A major goal for the Symposium was for it to serve as a springboard for further work based on the principles of the New Tactics project, including collaboration among diverse groups of human rights advocates and maximizing tactical flexibility. Symposium participants began laying the foundation for future cooperation before they even left Ankara. They gathered twice during the Symposium in regional caucuses, where they could build networks and make plans for collaboration, and made connections in workshops, over shared meals and at social events. Many participants have already told us about specific plans they have made for new networks and joint projects. The challenge facing the New Tactics project now is to build on these successes by ensuring that the project’s partners have what they need to take greater ownership and initiative in the project, and working to ensure that the project’s tools and conceptual framework contribute to the effectiveness of human rights advocates as they take the next steps to implement ideas the project has sparked.
"It was one of the most inspiring conferences that I have ever taken part in."
"The project is a wonderful opportunity for human rights activists to learn from each other and identify new ways of addressing the issues they work with."
"Thank you (and all those involved) for giving me an inspiring, enlightening and profoundly satisfying experience."
"The Symposium was an "eye opener" to me. Many people will benefit from the New Tactics ideas and the multiplier effect will be overwhelming."
The Symposium was organized by Center for Victims of Torture, Helsinki Citizens’ Assembly, and Public Administration Institute for Turkey and the Middle East
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