Sakharov Prize Laureates (1988 - 2000)

Las Madres de Plaza de Mayo (1992, Argentina)

Overview

• Las Madres de Plaza de Mayo: A group of Argentinian mothers formed to protest against the forced disappearance and torture of political opponents during Argentina's Dirty War (1976-1983).
  • Known for their peaceful resistance to the military dictatorship.
• Recognition: Awarded the Sakharov Prize in 1992 by the European Parliament.

Historical Context

• Argentina's Dirty War: A period from 1976 to 1983 marked by severe human rights abuses by the military regime, including abductions, torture, and murder of political opponents.
  • Children born to imprisoned women were often stolen.
• Formation: The movement began on April 30, 1977, when 14 mothers first protested in the Plaza de Mayo.
  • They wore white scarves and carried photos of their missing children.

Impact and Activities

• International Attention: Gained widespread recognition for their weekly protests and emblematic actions.
• Response to Regime: Despite being ordered to disperse, they continued their marches, calling for the return of their children and justice for those responsible for the disappearances.
  • Three founding members were killed by the regime in an attempt to suppress the movement.
• Post-Regime: Focus shifted towards demanding justice as the military regime ended in 1983 due to economic collapse and military defeat in the Falklands War.

Division and Continued Efforts

• 1986 Split: Las Madres split into two groups:
  • Main Association: Led by Hebe de Bonafini, refused to accept dissidents' deaths until justice was served.
  • Founding Line: Focused on recovering remains of the victims.
• Use of Sakharov Prize: Prize money was utilized to fund various social initiatives, including a university.

Current Status and Legacy

• Ongoing Activism: Las Madres continue their Thursday marches, advocating for human rights and justice.
  • Hebe de Bonafini, the leader, passed away on November 20, 2022.
• Social Media and Recognition: The group remains active on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Additional Resources

• 1992 Award Ceremony: Video available on the European Parliament's multimedia platform.
• Further Connections: Engage with Las Madres de Plaza de Mayo through various social media channels for updates and support.

Important Links

• European Parliament and Sakharov Prize: Information accessible through the European Parliament website, with extensive resources on the Sakharov Prize and its laureates.

These notes provide a comprehensive overview of Las Madres de Plaza de Mayo, their historical significance, actions, and ongoing impact in advocating for justice and human rights.