NEW MEXICO – Bill Richardson and Refugees International
As we travel across the country, LA2DC is honoring the accomplishments of individuals and organizations doing the difficult work of genocide and mass atrocity detection and prevention, and providing survivor relief. LA2DC is proud to recognize the work of former New Mexico governor Bill Richardson with his efforts to advocate support for displaced people.
Throughout a distinguished career as Congressman, UN Ambassador, Energy Secretary and Governor, Bill Richardson has developed an exceptional international reputation, an extensive network of personal contacts and enormous global experience. He has successfully completed sensitive diplomatic missions in countries such as North Korea, Iraq, Afghanistan, Sudan, Cuba, Burma, Congo and Colombia. He has been a representative of the U.S. government and has served as an unofficial envoy with no ties to any government. Richardson has a proven track record of negotiating with and earning the trust of international leaders. Richardson has succeeded in areas of the world where others refuse to negotiate.
In January 2007, at the request of the Save Darfur Coalition, Richardson brokered a 60-day cease-fire between al-Bashir and leaders of several rebel factions in Darfur, the western Sudanese region. The cease-fire never became effective, however, with allegations of breaches on all sides.
Bill Richardson has repeatedly and successfully negotiated the release of international hostages, American servicemen and prisoners in rogue nations around the world. As recognition for his diplomatic work, Richardson has been nominated several times for the Nobel Peace Prize.
In 2012, he joined the board of Refugees International, an independent humanitarian organization that advocates for better support for displaced people (including refugees and internally displaced people) and stateless people. It does not accept any United Nations or government funding. Refugees International’s advocacy addresses needs in resources and policy changes by government and UN agencies that improve conditions for refugees and displaced people.
LA2DC is organized and supported by Americans of all backgrounds and faiths and Armenian-Americans who believe that it’s time to eliminate genocide as a war tactic. On the centennial of the first large-scale genocide of the 20th century, LA2DC demands recognition and prevention of such atrocities and calls on world leaders to stop future genocides.
