Reflections on the 59th session of the UN Human Rights Council

A relatively short session due to the UN’s liquidity crisis, the Human Rights Council’s (HRC) 59th session (HRC59) took place from 16 June to 8 July 2025. Three session days were cut, a number of debates could not be held, and a number of reports could not be delivered by the UN’s Human Rights Office (OHCHR). This is a regrettable situation.

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From Exile to Influence: Kamau Ngugi’s Journey with DefendDefenders

“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.”

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Human Rights Defender of the month: David Kaggwa

“I have seen thousands of people benefit from the grants and protection provided by DefendDefenders. Through my legal advisory role on the board, I’m able to give back to society by contributing to the support we offer to human rights defenders.” – David Kaggwa

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