By Muhammad Sohail
On Tuesday, December 10, there was another continuation of the already traditional human rights breakfast in the spirit of the one from 1988, which was then organized in Prague by French President Mitterand for Czechoslovak dissidents.
Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský’s invitation to the Černín Palace was accepted by eight courageous people who, despite the unfavorable conditions in their home countries, did not give up and tirelessly advocated for freedom and democracy. Some had to flee across the border due to fears for their safety and continue their activities. Similar events are organized these days by Czech embassies around the world.
“Today’s traditional Mitterand breakfast with courageous personalities who, even in the demanding conditions of cruel regimes, did not let themselves be broken and remained active, was very inspiring. They had to leave, but they didn’t give up. For a long time, we support human rights and stand up for the oppressed,” said the head of Czech diplomacy.
The tradition of organizing a breakfast with activists, independent journalists and human rights defenders dates back to 1988, when French President Mitterand invited a group of eight dissidents to show their support and send a clear message to the then regime that the democratic world has not forgotten them. The same motive is behind today’s meeting with active representatives of civil society from states that do not respect democratic values and principles.
For example, representatives of independent media that spread uncensored news, civil society activists, a former political prisoner or a representative of the pro-democratic alternative government met in the Černín Palace today. They shared the reality of the situation in their countries and discussed possible scenarios and alternatives for future development. “Alsu Kurmaševa, a journalist working in Prague, was imprisoned in Russia for 288 days. Just because she was visiting her sick mom. Czech diplomacy worked tirelessly for her release. Today I had the honor to meet Alsu in person. We will not forget those who are unjustly prosecuted,” said Minister Lipavský during the meeting.
The Czech Republic has long supported pro-democracy forces and independent media in unfree regimes and speaks out in support of them in international forums as well.
