Hello Friends, The 59th session of the Human Rights Council (HRC59)), held from 16 June to 8 July 2025, was shortened due to the UN’s liquidity crisis, resulting in cancelled debates and undelivered OHCHR reports. Despite these challenges, the session stood out for its focus on Eritrea.
After 20 years of DefendDefenders, this is a moment not only for reflection but for action. As we honour two decades of resilience, solidarity, and advocacy, we look ahead with purpose: What can human rights defenders across generations learn from one another? To celebrate our 20th anniversary, DefendDefenders and AfricanDefenders are proud to launch The Roots of Resistance, a Mentorship Program for Young African Human Rights Defenders. This special initiative is designed to empower and connect emerging human rights defenders (HRDs) aged 18–30 through intergenerational mentorship, skills-building, and movement solidarity.
The UN Human Rights Council’s adoption of a resolution on
Eritrea: Do Not Create a Precedent, Maintain HRC Scrutiny All
Oral statements delivered during the 59th session of the UN
In a joint letter released ahead of the UN Human
DefendDefenders call for applications – Safe Sisters Fellowship Round 15 Call for
Oral statements delivered during the 58th session of the UN
Hello Friends, In our efforts to address the protection needs
Hello Friends, Since 2007, DefendDefenders has been supporting the establishment