Anna Politkovskaja Award 2011 for Razan Zeitouneh

Today the human rights organisation RAW (Reach All Women in War) has awarded the Syrian human rights activist Razan Zeitouneh with the Anna Politikovskaja Award 2011, set up to recognise women defending human rights in zones of war and conflict, often at great personal risk.

RAW chose Razan Zeitouneh as “a brave woman young woman who has courageously spoken out about the atrocities currently facing the people of her country. Her determination to speak the truth has forced her into hiding as well as the detention and torture of her family members. Because of the strict ban imposed on foreign journalists and human rights advocates Razan Zaitouneh has valiantly spoken out against the regime so intent on silencing her. She lives a life of courage and truth-telling in the face of grave danger, as Anna did. Razan Zaitouneh has become an essential voice representing the heart and soul of the people protesting, aiming for peace and freedom in Syria. We honour Razan Zaitouneh because of her selfless need to bring international attention to those unable to have the world’s ear.

A human rights lawyer and journalist, she risks her life speaking to international media and reporting on her information website – SHRIL, in order to bring attention to the plight of the Syrians and the violence that occurs on a daily basis. She speaks of the security apparatus that kills unarmed civilians, the tanks that destroy cities and towns and the military forces that show unspeakable brutality to women and children. We pledge our ongoing support and solidarity for Razan Zaitouneh.”

Damascus Bureau would like to send its sincerest congratulations to Razan Zeitouneh and wishes her all the best for her future work.