Protests, protests everywhere!

The apparent success of the Tahrir Square protest seems to have triggered a wave of demonstrations around the world over the weekend.  

Algeria was hard on Egypts heels on Friday with its pro-democracy rally, while the people of Yemen maintain their call for the countrys president to step down, despite baton-wielding riot police attacking the protestors (they are also reported to have used Tasers).

Also over the weekend, women across Italy took to the streets to demand better treatment for women, while in Sudan a group of women called for the release of dozens of detainees held in custody since anti-government protests took place in Khartoum in January.

Sudan wasnt the only African country where protests took place. The Women of Zimbabwe Arise (or WOZA) held its Valentines Day protest over the weekend which was attended by about 1,800 men and women. This annual
peaceful protest took place for the ninth year running. Theres more on these protests here, and if you want to support WOZA, take action here.

Meanwhile closer to home this weekend, thousands of people in London rallied in Trafalgar Square to demand respect for human rights in the Middle East and North Africa as part of a global day of action organised by Amnesty International.

The atmosphere was jubilant and the songs were catchy as Egyptians and Tunisians joined Amnestys Secretary General on stage to lead the crowd in chants and songs.

And it seems that the protests frenzy has not as yet dissipated as thousands are expected to take to the streets of Tehran for Irans green opposition rally today.

The legendary Bob Marley once said, Until the basic human rights are equally guaranteed to all Dis a war.  Forty years on, his words are ringing throughout the world as thousands of ordinary men and women are rallying to the streets to demand greater human rights for all. A rallying call I thoroughly endorse.