By Ken Roth, Executive Director of Human Rights Watch

Looking back at our work over the past year, I realize that, with your help, we have accomplished quite a lot. I thought I would share a few highlights in this year-end letter, as well as outline a number of the challenges that we face in the New Year.

As I write, after ten years of documenting the horrible civilian toll of cluster bombs, 94 governments signed the first international treaty banning the weapon at a ceremony today in Oslo, Norway, with more expected to sign soon. In addition, following our documentation of atrocities in Darfur over the past five years, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court requested an arrest warrant for the person allegedly directing the bloodshed: Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir. And after five years of documenting and speaking out against abuses at Guantanamo Bay, we welcome the incoming Obama administration’s pledge to close the prison facility.

I’m also happy to announce that, for our work on these and other issues, Human Rights Watch has been honored with the 2008 United Nations Prize for Human Rights—an award given every five years to individuals and organizations that have played an outstanding role in defending human rights. It is a propitious moment to receive the award, since it corresponds with the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and with our own 30th anniversary. I hope that you, as our supporters, share in our pride at this tribute.

Your continuing commitment is especially important in these tough economic times. Like other organizations, we at Human Rights Watch are tightening our belts. But because so many people depend on us, we also feel a deep responsibility to continue—and, in some places, intensify—our work. We cannot do that without your willingness to maintain your support even now, when it is difficult.

Please click on the bullets below for an overview of our work in just a few key areas and our plans for the coming year:  

• Securing a Comprehensive Ban on Cluster Munitions
• Fast Action During the Russia-Georgia Conflict
• Fighting for the Independence of the International Criminal Court
• Reporting From the Front Lines in Congo
• Reversing Flawed US Counter-Terrorism Policies

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Your steadfast support of Human Rights Watch has helped us make a real difference in 2008. I am thankful that you have been a member of our community, and look forward to working with you to build on these achievements in the coming year. I hope you will take comfort this holiday season in the knowledge that, while people in many parts of the world may be less fortunate than we are, together we have helped to alleviate their suffering and protect their rights. Please accept my profound gratitude for your support, and my best wishes to you and yours for a happy holiday season.