NEW YORK (January 30, 2018) — The Human Rights Foundation (HRF) mourns the passing of Gene Sharp, a Boston-based political science professor who specialized in nonviolent resistance and founded the Albert Einstein Institution in 1983. Sharp's work has contributed to the systematization of nonviolent theory and practice, and his books have guided the activity of many activists across the world. He passed away in Boston this past Sunday.
"Drawing on Henry David Thoreau and Mahatma Gandhi, Sharp's groundbreaking book, ‘From Dictatorship to Democracy,’ provided the foundations for most nonviolent resistance movements of the last three decades," said HRF President Thor Halvorssen. "Sharp's work has proven to be invaluable as a source of education and inspiration for the brave individuals tasked with initiating nonviolent revolutions across the world. Sharp’s spirit will live on through the work of every person who labors for a freer world using non-violence as a weapon of resistance."
Gene Sharp’s Albert Einstein Institution conducts research and offers free materials on nonviolent action to the public worldwide. The institution's executive director and Sharp associate, Jamila Raqib, spoke at HRF’s 2014 Oslo Freedom Forum and explained their work educating the world on nonviolent resistance.
Watch Raqib’s speech at the 2014 Oslo Freedom Forum here.
Human Rights Foundation (HRF) is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization that promotes and protects human rights globally, with a focus on closed societies.
For press inquiries contac Prachi Vidwans – Human Rights Foundation, (212) 246-8486, prachi@humanrightsfdn.wpengine.com.