In keeping with this custom, over 40 'targeted' leaders responsible for human rights violations in their countries, including Fidel Castro, Mu'ammar Gadafi and Pakistan's Musharraf, received festively-wrapped Christmas presents. Inside were four black Christmas tree balls, reworked to make ankle chains. On the enclosed card, the ISHR wished the despots 'a peaceful, undisturbed Christmas putting on these Christmas tree balls.'

We cannot say how many presents actually made it to their intended recipients, but even if they only reached the secretaries, this would still be a success for the human rights movement. Media response was outstandingly positive: in newspapers, radio shows and a prime-time TV report all featured the presents.