Helen Darbishire, a celebrated human rights activist and founder of Access Info, passed away on October 18th. Her work championed the right to access information, advocating for transparency in governance. Renowned voices in academia and civil society celebrated her impactful contributions, emphasizing her legacy of activism and dedication to promoting democratic values.
Helen Darbishire, the renowned European human rights activist and founder of Access Info, passed away on October 18th, prompting heartfelt tributes from the community. Her organization champions the right to access information, advocating for transparency and accountability within governance. Alberto Alemanno, a professor at the College of Europe, praised her enduring impact, calling her activism unparalleled compared to many political figures. He emphasized her charisma and effectiveness in advocating for a more open European Union. Darbishire’s notable career included pivotal roles with the United Nations Convention against Corruption and contributions to the Open Government Partnership. As an educator, she inspired future journalists at the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network’s summer journalism school throughout the early 2010s. Ana Petruseva, BIRN’s director for North Macedonia, described her as a brave champion for information freedom, recalling her victories in the quest for government transparency. Darbishire’s legacy is one of relentless advocacy that has paved the way for many. Established in 2006 in Madrid, Access Info is dedicated to promoting open government and the public’s right to information. Her previous experiences include work with organizations like Article 19 and the Open Society Institute, as well as consulting roles with UNESCO and the World Bank. Darbishire was not only a leader but also a prolific writer and lecturer on crucial topics like freedom of expression and human rights. Her life’s work advocates for the democratization of information, serving as a beacon of hope.
Helen Darbishire’s influence in human rights, particularly in promoting access to information, is profound and far-reaching. With a career dedicated to increasing transparency and accountability in Europe, she established Access Info to push for open governance. Her collaborations with international organizations reflect the significant intersections between civil society and global governance efforts.
Helen Darbishire’s passing marks a significant loss for the human rights community, but her legacy of fighting for transparency and accountability will endure. Her contributions have reshaped access to information across Europe, impacting countless lives. She leaves behind a rich legacy that inspires future generations of activists and advocates for democracy.
Original Source: balkaninsight.com
