Mandela remembered at World Forum on Human Rights

Brasília – The opening session of the World Forum on Human Rights, on Tuesday (Dec. 10), held a minute's silence in memory of the former president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, who died on Thursday (Dec. 5) at the age of 95. In a microphone announcement, the event was dedicated to the memory of the anti-racist leader. The moment of silence was followed by applause.

The Ambassador of South Africa to Brazil, Mphakama Mbete, was greeted with a bouquet of white roses in honor of the deceased president. He said Mandela’s work goes on in the efforts of millions of people worldwide.

Michel Temer, Brazil’s acting president, extolled Mandela’s generosity: “He spent 27 years in prison, and when he was released, instead of nurturing hatred and division, he actually brought opposing sides together to create a democracy."

The director of the Latin American College of Social Sciences (FLACSO), Pablo Gentili said that the vision of the South African leader is inspirational. “You can’t talk about Mandela without bearing in mind that a young black man dies in Brazil every 30 minutes," he said.

The opening date chosen for the forum marks the 65th birthday of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The purpose of the conferences, debates, and activities is to reflect upon the key developments and challenges, with a focus on welcoming diversity, promoting social participation, bridging gaps, and confronting all human rights violations. Over 6,000 people signed up for the event in Brasília, which ends on Friday (Dec. 13).

Edited by Carolina Pimentel / Nira Foster
Translated by Mayra Borges