Human Rights Defenders Work
Human Rights Defenders Work
At Students for Global Democracy Uganda, we recognize that human rights defenders play a crucial role in promoting and protecting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Our Human Rights Defenders Work focuses on supporting, protecting, and empowering these brave individuals who stand up for the rights of others, often at great personal risk.
We work with student human rights defenders, young activists, and community-based defenders to enhance their capacity, ensure their safety, and amplify their voices in the fight for human rights and democratic values.
Key Objectives
Protection
Developing and implementing protection mechanisms for human rights defenders at risk, including emergency response, digital security, and psychosocial support.
Capacity Building
Strengthening the skills and knowledge of human rights defenders through training, mentoring, and resources on human rights documentation, advocacy, and security.
Network Building
Creating and supporting networks of human rights defenders for solidarity, knowledge sharing, collaborative advocacy, and collective protection.
Advocacy
Advocating for policies, laws, and practices that protect the rights of human rights defenders and create an enabling environment for their work.
Public Awareness
Raising public awareness about the role and importance of human rights defenders in promoting democracy, human rights, and sustainable development.
Solidarity
Standing in solidarity with human rights defenders who face threats, harassment, or persecution because of their legitimate human rights work.
Key Programs
Student Defenders Network
A network of student human rights defenders from universities across Uganda that provides a platform for collaboration, peer support, and joint advocacy on human rights issues.
Digital Security Initiative
Training and resources on digital security for human rights defenders to protect their online communications, data, and privacy from digital threats and surveillance.
Emergency Response Fund
Financial and logistical support for human rights defenders in emergency situations, including medical assistance, legal aid, temporary relocation, and other urgent needs.
Human Rights Documentation Training
Training for human rights defenders on how to systematically document human rights violations, including evidence collection, victim interviews, and secure storage of information.
Testimonials
"The training and support I received from SGD Uganda's Human Rights Defenders program gave me the skills and confidence to continue my advocacy work despite the challenges I face. The network of fellow defenders has become like a family, providing solidarity when I need it most."
"The digital security training was a game-changer for our community-based organization. We learned how to protect our sensitive information and communicate securely with victims of human rights abuses. This has significantly enhanced our ability to do our work safely."