New PBI Briefing: Courage Has So Many Faces

Celebrating 25 Years of the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders

Twenty-three years have passed since the momentous occasion in 1998 when the UN General Assembly ratified the Declaration on the Right and Responsibility of Individuals, Groups and Organs of Society to Promote and Protect Universally Recognised Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, commonly known as the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders. Culminating after 14 long years of negotiations, this landmark document stands as a testament to the international commitment to supporting and protecting the indispensable efforts of human rights defenders who play a pivotal role in making human rights a reality for so many across the world. Though not legally binding, the declaration articulates the existing duties enshrined in international human rights instruments and underscores the responsibility of states in protecting the rights of HRDs.

In principle, this declaration should provide specific protections to those who advocate for positive change, but in practice, HRDs continue to grapple with multifaceted challenges in increasingly difficult situations. In an effort to spotlight the vital work of HRDs globally in the face of such adversity, PBI has released a report shedding light not only on the daily struggles and challenges faced by these courageous and inspiring individuals but also delving into their transformative journeys towards becoming human rights defenders and the profound significance of their work. This article specifically zooms in on case studies from Guatemala, Honduras, Kenya, and Nicaragua, offering a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of HRDs in these regions, in their fight to defend their rights.