The UIA Tribute to Nelson Mandela, Lawyer and Tireless Defender of Human Rights and the Rule of Law

The Union Internationale des Avocats tributes to Nelson Mandela, lawyer and tireless defender of human rights and the rule of law.

First black lawyer in Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela fought all his life against apartheid.

Many years of incarceration have never undermined his determination nor his political struggle.

"During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die."