As part of DefendDefenders’ 20th anniversary commemorations, we have gathered stories that reflect the impact of our work over the past two decades. Through interviews with human rights defenders (HRDs), key partners, and friends, these stories highlight our journey as told by those we have worked with, stood alongside, and served. They include reflections from those present at our founding 20 years ago, as well as from partners who have walked this path with us. We are deeply grateful for the personal experiences shared, and we celebrate the memories and milestones we have achieved together. We are because you are.
As Hassan’s vision started to take hold, he reached out to several people and organisations, sharing the idea of establishing an HRDs’ network in the East and Horn of Africa. He mobilised financial and institutional support from those who understood and agreed that this was something essential; something that could make a difference.
Since 2019, DefendDefenders has been partnering with Mouvement Inamahoro. Marie Louise acknowledges how the partnership connects them to a larger network of HRDs and civil society organisations from the region, helping to amplify the Burundian HRDs’ advocacy efforts.
“So, it is a successful partnership. And what I like about DefendDefenders is their way of working with others, they are friendly. You never feel that they are ‘just doing their job’. There is this humanity, not just with a few that I can pick out, but with all the staff. Whenever we reach out to them, whenever they have the resources, they never stop supporting us. I think many people appreciate that. DefendDefenders helps them to start a new life, they can stand on their legs again and continue working in the field of human rights.”
“I get the ‘side-eye’ a lot; eyebrows are raised. People wonder if I am doing this work for selfish gain. They want to know the story behind the decision I made to follow this path.”
“I have been working as a doctor and a human rights defender (HRD) for over 10 years. During this time, I have witnessed the many violations that doctors and health workers, in particular, are subjected to in my native Sudan.
“It is interesting that we are talking about 20 years of DefendDefenders. It actually feels like two years, because it feels like DefendDefenders keeps recreating itself. Its presence and the energy feels like it has just begun its work. The staff, the management, everyone at DefendDefenders, is very, very committed to defending human rights defenders and I can only wish them well and wish that we can grow as Defend Defenders, beyond 20 years, into the kind of future that they deserve.”