DefendDefenders has established and continues to support national coalitions of human rights defenders (HRDs) in Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, Somalia, and Uganda. The coalitions form part of a network across the East and Horn of Africa through which HRDs can come together and claim their rights at the national level.

As national mechanisms, they are in a unique position to reach HRDs working in remote areas, who often lack access to support systems and are most vulnerable. The national coalitions play a vital role in implementing capacity building activities and providing protection for HRDs across the sub-region.