Human rights defenders working in hostile environments

Too often, defenders work in hostile environments. There are many reasons why. Most relate to the fact that defenders’ work may lead them to confront powerful actors who are violating international human rights law, be it government or state authorities, security forces, opposition armed groups or private armed gangs. These actors may retaliate by trying to stop defenders doing their work, through anything from subtle repression of attempts at free expression to declared threats and direct attacks. The actors’ level of tolerance depends on the defenders’ work - some activities might be deemed acceptable, others not. Often this uncertainty is also deliberate.

Two important considerations should be made here: In many cases, it is only certain elements within complex actors (such as those mentioned above) who are hostile towards defenders. For example, some elements within a government may be relatively serious about protecting defenders, while other elements want to attack them. Defenders may also experience more hostility during times of political upheaval, such as elections or other political events.