The Vital Role of Human Rights Defenders in Africa
As we approach International Human Rights Defenders Day and International Human Rights Day, the significance of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) in Africa cannot be overstated. These defenders play a crucial role in defending, protecting, and promoting human rights in the face of numerous challenges and violations. In Africa, HRDs often find themselves at the receiving end of human rights abuses, which hinder their ability to carry out their important work.
According to Gilbert Sebihogo, the Executive Director of NANHRI, “Human Rights Defenders are the cornerstone of justice and equality, yet their work often comes with immense risk.” The continent has witnessed an increase in threats against HRDs, including violations of their rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. This has been further exacerbated by intimidation, legal actions, and legislative constraints.
To address these challenges, NANHRI, in partnership with the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and DefendDefenders, will be hosting a regional dialogue with the support of the European Union. The aim of this dialogue is to tackle the issues facing HRDs and the shrinking civic space across Africa.
Hassan Shire, Executive Director of DefendDefenders, emphasizes the importance of protecting HRDs in upholding the rule of law and fostering inclusive governance. He states, “Policies that safeguard their work and expand civic space are not merely safeguards—they are investments in peace, democracy, and sustainable development across Africa.”
Continental Dialogue in Addis Ababa
From December 9th to 10th, 2024, key stakeholders, human rights institutions, and civil society organizations working on HRDs and Civic Space will convene in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, at the Radisson Blu Hotel for a critical continental dialogue. This event aligns with International Human Rights Defenders Day and International Human Rights Day, underscoring the commitment to protecting HRDs and strengthening National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs).
During the dialogue, NANHRI will introduce a newly developed scorecard to monitor the implementation of the 2018 Marrakech Declaration and Regional Plan of Action. The Marrakech Declaration, endorsed by 260 NHRI representatives, focuses on protecting HRDs and promoting positive narratives around human rights.
The gathering aims to reinvigorate NHRIs in identifying threats to HRDs and limitations to civic and democratic space. It also seeks to foster collaborative advocacy efforts with civil society organizations, reaffirming NANHRI’s dedication to empowering HRDs and creating a safe environment for their work.
