John Jackson is to step down as Co-Director of the Burma Campaign UK as of July 15th. John is a founder member of the Burma Campaign UK, and has worked as a full-time Director since 1998. He will remain on the Board. John will be joining MTV to work on a global initiative on HIV/AIDS and on its European pro-social campaigns.
Co-Director Yvette Mahon, who will now be sole Director of the Burma Campaign UK, paid tribute to John’s work for the campaign: “John has been an inspiration to me personally, to all of us at BCUK and to the movement as a whole. His experience, his talent, energy and unwavering commitment has seen BCUK become the highly professional and reputable campaigning organisation it is today. He will be much missed. Despite his absence from the office I know he remains no less committed to ensuring the people of Burma achieve the peace and freedom they deserve. We wish John every best possible wish for the future.”
John Jackson said: “In recent years the Burma Campaign UK has grown greatly, its campaigns are high profile and highly effective, and its reputation is international. I have no doubt whatsoever it will continue to go from strength to strength. For these reasons, I feel confident that it is a good time for me to move on.
“I would like to thank the brilliant team of campaigners at BCUK, (Yvette, Mark and Anna) whose professionalism, creativity and energy have made my job so rewarding. Thanks also to all of the hidden BCUK advisers who guide us well but who never receive the credit that they deserve. Thanks also to Prof. Michael Taylor, our Chair, for his wise counsel and to Glenys Kinnock MEP our Patron, whose support is invaluable.
“The courage and determination of people I have met in Burma, along its borders and within the diaspora has been inspirational. Whenever I’ve needed some courage or determination myself, I’ve imagined their faces and their words, and been able to achieve much more than I would have done alone. I have family and very close friends who continue to be affected by the situation in their homeland, and for that reason Burma has a very special place in my heart. I have worked with great people in sister organisations and have made wonderful friends too.
“There is no doubt that Burma will one day be free, it’s a matter of time. I salute all of you who are working towards that day.”
For more information contact Mark Farmaner, Burma Campaign UK, Media Manager, on 020 7324 4713