World Liberty Congress

The World Liberty Congress condemns the arbitrary arrest of our member, Sarah Bireete—a respected Ugandan lawyer and Executive Director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance—reportedly taken into custody without disclosed charges. Coming at a moment of heightened political tension ahead of Uganda’s upcoming elections, her detention raises urgent concerns about escalating repression and the intimidation of independent civic voices. We are equally alarmed by reports that the authorities have publicly listed other WLC members and allied human rights defenders, placing them at heightened risk of abduction, arrest, and harassment in the days and months ahead. WLC calls for Ms. Bireete’s immediate release, full access to counsel and due process, and an end to the targeting of human rights defenders and pro-democracy advocates in Africa—and we urge Ugandan authorities to ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections in which all citizens can participate without fear.

From the World Liberty Congress, we unequivocally condemn the cruelty committed by the Maduro regime in the case of Alfredito Díaz, a former governor and political prisoner whose death in custody reflects the regime’s ongoing brutality. Denied the medical attention he desperately needed, Díaz was left to die inside El Helicoide, the biggest torture center in Latin America. His death is a stark reminder of the systemic abuses suffered by countless political detainees. We urge the international community to demand the immediate release of all political prisoners in Venezuela and around the world, and to stand firm in defending human rights, freedom, and justice worldwide.

At the WLC General Assembly in Berlin, former WLC President Masih Alinejad opened with a powerful call to action: the time has come to bring down authoritarianism — and the strength to do it lies in each of us. Her message was clear: this movement is driven by the courage, determination, and unity of people who refuse to be silenced. “It’s all about you”. #togetherwearestronger #Freedom

At the General Assembly in Berlin, the former vice president of the World Liberty Congress, Garry Kasparov, delivered his opening remarks, stressing that this is a fight we, the real fighters, must win against dictators everywhere, abroad and within our own countries. He ended with a message of resolve and hope, declaring that together, “we shall overcome.” #Freedom #HumanRights

At the WLC General Assembly in Berlin, former Secretary General Leopoldo López reflected on the origins of the World Liberty Congress — how it began as a bold idea and has grown into the largest global alliance of pro-democracy leaders and freedom fighters. His remarks were a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from unity, courage, and a shared commitment to advancing human rights and democracy around the world.

WLC honors the women whose strength drives our world forward. Violence against women is a violation of our shared humanity. #togetherwearestronger

In a landmark moment for internal accountability, WLC members in Berlin elected a new Leadership Council and Executive Council — proving our commitment to democratic values not only in our mission, but in our internal practice. For many of our members, this was the first truly free vote of their lives, a right denied to them in their own countries. These elections are more than a procedure — they are a powerful act of defiance and a glimpse of the future we are fighting for.

From The Hague, before the International Court of Justice, the President of the World Liberty Congress, Felix Madariaga, sends a clear message to every dictator: you may believe you stand above the law, but we are working relentlessly to ensure that your crimes against humanity are brought before the full force of international justice.

The World Liberty Congress was deeply honored to welcome WLC member and 2022 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk to our General Assembly in Berlin, where she shared a powerful and inspiring message with all our delegates. Her courage and leadership continue to inspire and energize our global movement. #togetherwearestronger