ORGANIZAȚIA PENTRU APĂRAREA
                       DREPTURILOR OMULUI

Name: Organization for the Defense of Human Rights (OADO)

Year of foundation: April 1990

Mission: OADO is dedicated to promoting and defending the principles of human rights as described in the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It aims to contribute to the restoration of democracy and socio-economic reforms in post-totalitarian Romania.

Overview: OADO was founded immediately after the 1989 Revolution and has been actively engaged in the defense of human rights for over 34 years. The organization has played a crucial role in shaping Romania's transition to a more democratic and inclusive society. OADO works tirelessly to ensure that the rights of every individual are respected and protected, fighting for social justice, equality and the rule of law.

Key objectives: Fighting discrimination and injustice: OADO is committed to fighting all forms of discrimination and injustice, working for a society in which every person is treated with dignity and respect.

Promotion and protection of human rights: the organization coordinates and mobilizes NGOs and other stakeholders to promote and protect human rights. By facilitating collaboration and resource-sharing, OADO strengthens the collective effort to protect human rights in Romania.

Awareness-raising and education: OADO develops and implements projects and programs aimed at raising awareness of the importance of human rights. It offers direct services and assistance to victims of human rights violations, providing them with knowledge and support.

Advocacy and accountability: the OADO monitors and evaluates information to identify the best solutions and to effectively address human rights issues. The organization issues notifications to the College of Commissioners of the European Court of Human Rights, demanding concrete action and accountability for the actions and conduct of judicial authorities.

Engaging with international bodies: the OADO submits memoranda to the European Commission on private property rights and unjustified expropriations carried out by the Romanian state.

Collaborations and partnerships: the OADO has established partnerships with various organizations, including the Ombudsman, the Ronald McDonald Children's Foundation, the International Police Officers Association (IPA) and others, and has been very active in all presidential, parliamentary, local elections and referendums, both at home and abroad, at the request of the OSCE, and the Council of Europe.

Through these collaborations, OADO works to promote and protect human rights in Romania and abroad.

Monitoring and reporting: the organization receives complaints and reports of human rights violations and forwards them to the competent authorities for investigation and appropriate action. OADO representatives conduct visits to asylums, orphanages, detention centres and remand centres to monitor and assess the living conditions and treatment of institutionalized or detained persons, ensuring that their rights are respected.

Legal support and fair trials: OADO refers cases to specialized lawyers to ensure the right to fair trials in court. It provides support and assistance to people affected by abuse or inhumane treatment, including access to legal, medical and psychological services.

Through its continuous efforts and dedication, OADO has made significant contributions to the promotion of human rights in Romania. The organization remains committed to its mission, advocating for justice, equality and the protection of human rights for all people in the country.