PBI UK Launches 2023-25 impact report
In Uncertain Times, Solidarity Shines Through
In testing circumstances, human rights and environmental defenders are demonstrating that key battles can be won if they are safe and heard. Our new report takes a closer look, while outlining PBI’s plans for the years ahead.
Around the world, brave defenders of human rights and the environment are facing a uniquely critical moment. Authoritarianism, populism and polarisation have combined to roll back rights and environmental commitments, while progressive movements and institutions are under attack like never before. Over the past two years, PBI has received an increasing number of requests from defenders for psychological as well as security assistance.
With the help of our supporters, we have been able to respond with both our proven protection strategies and new models of support. We have developed a training manual focused on wellbeing—which will allow us to share tools with defenders beyond the countries where we have established teams—and scaled up joint advocacy for corporate accountability.
We have also continued to tailor protection strategies grounded in a careful analysis of how to deter attacks—supporting defenders in managing risks so they can remain where they want to be: in their communities, making change. Examples of defender successes in 2023-25 include:
Historic land rights agreements: Support for Indigenous communities in Guatemala led to landmark land rights accords.
Progress on transitional justice: Defenders gained accountability for war crimes in Nepal and legal victories in Kenya.
Women leading change: Defenders secured legal precedents in cases of sexual violence, reshaping protections for women and girls.
Influencing UK policy: Defenders brought their voices directly to parliament and civil society leaders, building alliances to hold corporartions to account.
This report is a snapshot of PBI’s impact in a critical global moment. Defenders face increasing threats. Your solidarity enables them to stay safe, stay active, and stay heard.
The report also outlines PBI’s bold vision for the future. Highlights include:
New wellbeing tools for defenders.
Global outreach beyond our current field presence.
Stronger advocacy for corporate accountability.
At PBI, we stand in solidarity with those who risk everything to defend human rights and the environment. For over 40 years, we have provided life-saving support to activists and organisations facing grave threats in some of the world’s most dangerous regions, so that they can make lasting change in their communities, countries and globally.
With your continued support for PBI, defenders can keep changing the world.
