Despite the ongoing peace talks between the Government of Uganda and the Lord’s Resistance Army that has terrorised Northern and Eastern Uganda for two decades, human rights defenders (HRDs) in this region continue to face a multitude of challenges in executing their most courageous work of defending the rights of others.

Having had the opportunity to meet and exchange ideas with so many frontline human rights defenders at this event has been rewarding and motivating for the East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Network to continuously work towards their better protection.

I want to use this opportunity to thank all participants for their attendance, their valuable input and the outstanding human rights work they do. Through collaborative efforts we shall achieve the respect of human rights and fundamental freedom in the end.

Our appreciation also goes out to the resource persons from Amnesty International and Caritas Counseling Centre for the insight provided on issues pertinent to the work of human rights defenders. Continued information sharing is key to strengthening the capacity of defenders and henceforth increase their ability to protect the rights of others.Special thanks also go to our long standing partner, the National Endowment for Democracy that has made this event possible.

I further thank all the staff members at the Secretariat who worked tirelessly to make this workshop happen and also helped compile this crucial report.The East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Project vows to continue its work towards a better protection of human rights defenders and providing support to those at risk.

Hassan Shire Sheikh

Chairperson
East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Project/Network