Create a More Just World by December 10th - JEFF KENNEL

Ouk Vandeth is a human rights criminal defense lawyer and an IBJ Fellow based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Ouk risks his life daily to defend the legal rights of Cambodians who have been detained and tortured - people who have no way to defend themselves.

Ouk was not always a lawyer – he started as a police officer. After seeing countless acts of coercion and torture by other officers he realized governments should protect people not persecute them, that this was inhumane and illegal. Soon after this he started his career in law. Ouk decided to make it his personal responsibility to protect citizens and change society. Ouk became one of Cambodia’s very first legal rights advocates.

Ouk’s dedication has pioneered an extensive number of measures taken to improve Cambodian society. He did a radio program throughout the country receiving calls from distant provinces in Cambodia requesting information and assistance. He held public awareness programs on the street where Ouk would ask questions of the crowd to see what they knew about law and then handed out information that would help them to defend themselves.

Ouk needs your help and support to carry out his vision of an independent legal system that protects human rights instead of violating legal rights and creating a country of fear.

Every day, IBJ Fellows take huge risks for the defense of legal rights around the world. Their programs are under constant threat of running out of money. They have $5,000 to run their projects for a year and reach the goals they have selflessly dedicated their lives to.

Despite the risks they take on a daily basis for their work they cannot create significant, long-lasting legal changes without adequate funding and resources. Help them realize their goals by rallying in support of their uncompromising dedication to human rights.

Your Pledge

During this campaign, your donations will be matched by up to $125,000 through the generous funding of private donors.

My goal is to raise $300 between now and December 10th, 2009, Human Rights Day, in order to support these Fellows and the changes they strive tirelessly to achieve.

Save lives and create a more just world by December 10 – contribute now!