AAAS Scientific Responsibility, Human Rights and Law Program

Scientists Recognized by the Science and Human Rights Program

2005

Each year the AAAS Science and Human Rights Program hosts a reception at the AAAS Annual Meeting to honor one or more scientists who, through action and example, have promoted human rights, usually at great personal risk. In 2005, the Program honors both an individual and an organization working to provide critical humanitarian care and medical assistance in times of conflict and natural disaster.

The individual being honored is Arjan Erkel, a Dutch humanitarian aid worker who was the Head of Mission for the French medical aid association Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in Dagestan. Erkel was abducted on 12 August 2002 by three gunmen in Makhachkala, Dagestan. Erkel was in the region providing medical assistance and humanitarian aid to displaced people from the neighboring region of Chechnya. The Program issued urgent appeals on the AAASHRAN about Erkel’s kidnapping and urged members of the scientific community to pressure the government to investigate the case, ensure Erkel’s safety and to hold those responsible accountable. Arjan Erkel was freed in 2004 after 20 months in captivity.

The Program is also honoring the organization of Médecins Sans Frontières. MSF is an international humanitarian aid organization that provides emergency medical assistance to populations in danger in more than 80 countries. MSF plays an important role in conflict situations by raising awareness of crisis situations and serving as a witness to speak out, either through public or private channels about the plight of individuals in area of political instability. MSF seeks to alleviate human suffering, to protect life and health and to restore and ensure respect for the human beings and their fundamental human rights.

There will be a brief ceremony beginning around 5:15. Reception is open to non-meeting participants. Complimentary refreshments will be served after the ceremony.

Cosponsors:

• Human Rights Committee of the American Chemical Society
• American Physical Society's committee for International Freedom of Scientists
• Committee for Concerned Scientists

For more information please contact AAAS staff member Victoria Baxter.