In tribute to the "Ladies in White", the European Union bestowed upon them the 2005 Sakharov Prize for Freedom. This award was hailed as a victory for the Island 's pro-democratic groups. The pro-democratic organization "Ladies in White" became a world symbol of the struggle against tyranny and repression. They are one the greatest signs of hope for the new Cuba. In beginning 2008, they were threatened and attacked by paramilitaries forces.