It is with immense sadness that we have learned that IDSN’s first Director, Rikke Nöhrlind, has passed away.

Rikke was an instrumental part of laying the foundations of the International Dalit Solidarity Network (IDSN) and a formidable force in breaking down barriers and kicking in doors to ensure that the human rights violations caused by caste discrimination were addressed at the global level.

Under her leadership between 2003 and 2016, the organisation went from strength to strength. She fought tirelessly to ensure that Dalit rights defenders could access global platforms where their voices could be heard. She followed up relentlessly to demand that action be taken at all levels to address the immense injustices and inequities that stem from caste discrimination, and her efforts have made a lasting impact. She was a true force of nature and would never take no for an answer.

Rikke devoted her life and service to the pursuit of justice for marginalised and excluded communities. She leaves behind a beautiful family and a strong legacy and testament to that no matter how immense the challenges, we should never give up the fight.

Rest in Power!