Arrested in February 2023 due to my work as a human rights defender, imprisoned for two and a half months, and then forced into exile with my entire family, I felt truly exhausted despite sessions with psychologists.
The Respite Program offered by the Paris Bar came as an unexpected solution to my fatigue. The month spent in the beautiful French capital allowed me to recharge, meditate, and dream again. I returned feeling so rested that those I met upon my return were surprised by how well I looked.
During my stay, I had the opportunity to meet leaders of organizations working in the field of human rights and engaged in advocacy, particularly for a fellow human rights defender in a very difficult situation. As I write these lines, I am filled with a sense of joy and gratitude as my colleague has been assisted.
Thank you to the Respite Program, which allowed me to live again and interact with people I might never have been able to meet otherwise. I pray that this extraordinary work of solidarity, the Respite Program, will continue...
