Mauritanian activist wins human rights award

Mauritanian Muslim human rights activist, Biram Ould Abeid received the Frontline Defenders of Human Rights award on Friday in Dublin. Irish President Michael D Higgins presented the renowned anti-slavery campaigner with the award during the prestigious event. President Higgins said Biram Dah Abeid has worked tirelessly and at great personal cost to ensure the voices of those enslaved are heard and liberation becomes a reality. Abeid was selected from 100 nominees in 40 countries, according to Front Line Defenders. UNPO's general-secretary also sent his congrats to the activist, saying: "Abeid has worked tirelessly in his home country, Mauritania, defending the rights of the Haratin and campaigning for the abolition of slavery. It is estimated that between 10 to 20 percent of Mauritania’s population if affected by slavery, despite the government’s official and legal abolition of slavery." The Mauritanian government has however denied slavery's existence in the country but "does operate a programme for formerly enslaved people."