Regional Newsletter, February 2026

(This newsletter is translated using AI)

Dear activists.

We hope you are doing well and enjoying the winter..

In this group update, you can read more about:

• 4-years of war
• International women's day

• Update on Leidy from Colombia

Greetings from the regional office

4 years with war in Ukraine

In discussions about geopolitics, negotiations, and borders, we must remember that the war in Ukraine is about people. People in Ukraine who must spend their nights in bomb shelters. Prisoners of war and civilians held in Russian captivity. Ukrainians in Norway who fear for their loved ones still back home. They need to see that we have not forgotten them.

On February 24th, we will show solidarity with Ukrainians and demand a just peace. There will be gatherings in several places around the country, organized by Ukrainian associations, and we hope that many of you will participate.

On our Get Involved page, you will find posters and a petition that can be used during the events.

International women's day the 8th of march

The final text for this year’s Amnesty slogan has been decided, and we will march under the banner:

“Stop authoritarian leaders’ attacks on women – sexual violence is being used as torture”

Across the world, we see that sexual violence against women is being used as an authoritarian tool to silence them. This is something we will draw attention to together on International Women’s Day, March 8th.

On our Get Involved page, you will find posters and petitions that can be used during the events.

Get engaged

Good news: Leidy Cadena Torres

In April 2021, Leidy was shot in the eye with rubber bullets while she was on her way to a protest in Colombia. Afterwards, Leidy was persecuted because she dared to raise her voice and speak out about the police violence. The persecution forced her to flee Colombia and seek asylum in Norway. Many of you are familiar with her case.

The police officer who shot her has now been convicted. The length of his sentence will be decided on April 6th. The verdict is not final; both Leidy and the police can appeal.

Leydi is pleased that the police officer is being held accountable, and she has posted a video on her Instagram where she thanks Amnesty International, among others.

It will of course be interesting to see what happens next – this may not be completely over, but it is an important step toward justice for Leidy. As far as we know, no other cases from the national strikes in Colombia have progressed this far. So this is also an important victory for Colombia and the Colombian justice system.

Click the button below to watch the video we made with Leidy when she first came to Norway.

video leidy

This newsletter will go out to all activists who are registered in groups on Min Side. Currently, I see that not everyone is registered here and ask group leaders to share with those who may not have received this e-mail - thank you!

Get in touch if you have any questions!