The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) has chosen Alexis Deswaef as its new president for a three-year term. The announcement was made at the FIDH Congress in Bogotá, held every three years in a different city.
Alongside the presidential election, the International Board of FIDH, comprising human rights organizations worldwide, was renewed. FIDH represents a global network of nearly 200 human rights groups from over 115 countries.
Alexis Deswaef is a 55-year-old Belgian lawyer specializing in international law who has dedicated his career to human rights advocacy. He has served as president of the Belgian Human Rights League and was vice-president of FIDH for six years. His activism spans Europe, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Middle East, Iraq, Palestine, Israel, and Egypt.
Deswaef also practices law at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
"First and foremost, I wish to thank the organisations that have placed their trust in me."
Alexis Deswaef's election reflects his longstanding commitment to international human rights and leadership within a vast global network.