Effective strategies for safeguarding human rights defenders during national emergencies

Working alongside national defender coalitions across Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Sierra Leone, and Niger, the ISHR has released a comprehensive guide on effective practices for shielding human rights advocates and maintaining their vital operations during periods of instability.

Navigating civic space constraints during global crises

The introduction of emergency protocols and lockdowns to curb the spread of COVID-19 significantly altered the operational landscape for human rights defenders. Beyond their usual hurdles, the pandemic response in several African nations contributed to a further tightening of the civic and democratic environment, which was already structurally constrained. In these volatile settings, ensuring that those fighting for human rights can continue their advocacy and field work remains a critical priority.

Analysing the impact of restrictive measures

This research aims to evaluate how restrictive COVID-19 policies have influenced the freedoms and rights of activists in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Niger, and Sierra Leone. It highlights the innovative tactics adopted by civil society groups to persist despite coercive measures, while also acknowledging the constructive roles played by government bodies and other stakeholders. Furthermore, the report offers a set of strategic recommendations to bolster the safety of human rights defenders and protect civic space during emergencies.

Serving as a powerful advocacy resource, this study targets national, regional, and international human rights bodies. It seeks to prevent the misuse of emergency powers and ensure that human rights defenders are consistently protected, regardless of the circumstances.