Universal donorship appeal

On 10 December 2007, Human Rights Day, the High Commissioner launched a year-long universal donorship appeal to mark the 60th anniversary, on Human Rights Day 2008, of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. She wrote to all 192 Member States, calling upon them to express their commitment to human rights by making a financial contribution, commensurate with their means, in support of the United Nations human rights programme, as a demonstration of their commitment to the ideals first set out 60 years ago in the Declaration.

Six months into the appeal, in June 2008, the High Commissioner reiterated her call to Member States, encouraging them to respond positively to her appeal for support. It is very much hoped that as many Member States as possible will make a voluntary contribution to OHCHR in this anniversary year, in whatever amount they deem appropriate, thereby demonstrating worldwide support for the United Nations human rights programme and the values of dignity and justice.

As at 19 August 2008, the following Governments have contributed US$ 809,981 to the campaign:

* Consists of the first ever contribution to OHCHR.

For more information on our universal donorship drive, or to make a contribution, please contact:

Charles Radcliffe
Chief of OHCHR’s Donor and External Relations Section in Geneva
Tel: + 41 22 917 9438
Fax: + 41 22 917 9644
Email: dexrel@ohchr.org