Human Rights Defenders

Human rights defenders expose violations and campaign for redress for victims. They are the people who on their own or with others take action to ensure the promotion and protection of human rights for all. The important thing is not who they are, but what they do. Human rights defenders take peaceful action and believe everybody has equal rights.

News and Updates

China: Legal activist’s sister-in-law detained as harassment intensifies

24 April 2013

The Chinese authorities must release the sister-in-law of a prominent human rights activist and end the ongoing harassment of his relatives living in Shandong Province.

Crackdown and hollow promises ahead of Bahrain Grand Prix

17 April 2013

As Bahrain steps into the global spotlight with the upcoming Formula One Grand Prix, there is a high risk that last year’s repressive tactics will be repeated, Amnesty International said today.

Belarus: Dare to be independent

17 April 2013

Civil society is being suppressed in Belarus by a repressive government that will not tolerate any form of criticism.

Bahrain: New move to crush dissent ahead of Grand Prix

15 April 2013

A move by Bahrain’s government to jail anyone found guilty of insulting the Gulf nation’s King for up to five years is a new attempt to crush dissent before the country hosts the Formula One Grand Prix later this week.

Uruguay’s Equal Marriage Act a step towards full equality in the Americas

12 April 2013

The Uruguayan Parliament’s adoption of the Equal Marriage Act on 10 April will bolster human rights protections and bring an inclusive society for all a step closer.