Hot or Not? Humanitarian & Human Rights Advocacy Ads to the Test

by Michelle . · 2009-09-09 03:38:00 UTC
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The recent debate over a video ad from aid agency Medecins San Frontieres (MSF), like many others in the blogosphere, seemed to me to be rather lopsided: Many people rushed to condemn and ridicule the ad, while few offered constructive suggestions on what would qualify as an acceptable and effective public humanitarian appeal. Human rights advocacy campaigns often fall under similar  criticism.

In that vein, following a brief Twitter chat with fellow bloggers, I think it's time to initiate the Humanitarian/Human Rights "Hot or Not" Series. Which video and visual ads from humanitarian and human rights agencies make the grade? You be the judge.

First up: Two ads from Amnesty International, with hat tips to @Transitionland and @karlincharge.

The first one, "Rights Universal," I rather like -- I find individual testimony to be the most compelling form of outreach, and this video artfully weaves in symbolism without catering to the cliché.

Next, I don't have a moral issue with this animated ad from Amnesty International in France, other than that it creeps me out. I suppose, though, that the stark presentation of good and evil is a bit uncreative, at the least.

But what do you think? Negative critiques should be coupled with something positive and constructive.

Michelle . has been involved in various activist endeavors, including the Teach Against Genocide pilot campaigns.
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