LHR launches revamped democracy centre

The newly revamped and launched Kutlwanong Democracy Centre (KDC) has undergone a transformation. The KDC, owned by Lawyers for Human Rights, provides a unique hub for civil society in Pretoria, bringing together a range of organisations working in the areas of human rights, social assistance and development.

The opening and revamp of the historically significant KDC was addressed by FIDH President Karim Lahidji, LHR National Director Jacob van Garderen, former FIDH deputy president Arnold Tsunga, FIDH Deputy Secretary General Alice Mogwe and former IDASA head Paul Newman.

In illustrating the need for collaborative partnerships, Mogwe cited the case of Edwin Samotse who faced the potential of the death penalty in Botswana. Despite South Africa having laws that prevent the deportation of someone at risk of the death penalty in their home country, Samotse was sent back. This anti-death penalty case was taken on in collaboration with Ditshwanelo in Botswana, LHR in South Africa and FIDH in Paris. “In terms of the original mission by FIDH, a report was produced and out of that has come concrete engagement with the African Commission,” she explained.

The KDC has a long history in providing a unique space for civil society in Pretoria, bringing together a range of organisations working in the field of human rights, social assistance and development, such as LHR, ProBono.Org, FIDH, the Dikeletsong Citizens’ Advice Bureau, CSVR and others.

Coinciding with the launch of the centre, FIDH (International Federation for Human Rights) officially opened its new regional office in Pretoria. LHR is the South Africa member organisation of FIDH.

FIDH has one of the largest human rights networks in the world with 178 member organisations. The FIDH’s Africa regional office will continue its stellar work in defending civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights.

“The decision to open an office in South Africa was motivated by the inspirational human rights history and journey of this country, the leadership role it plays within regional and international institutions, as well as the human rights challenges it continues to face,” declared Lahidji. “In the Southern Africa region where discrimination, inequality and injustice are still present, we are determined to continue advocating along with our member and partner organisations from this region to ensure that the rule of law prevails over arbitrariness,” he added.

"The Kutlwanong Democacy Centre provides a convenient and collaborative space in which NGOs can operate. FIDH is a welcome addition and we look forward to continuing our work with them as a member organisation," explained van Garderen.