Regional consultation meeting for human rights defenders: the Western Balkans

About this event

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) will host a regional consultation meeting with human rights defenders from the Western Balkans as part of the process to update its Guidelines on the Protection of Human Rights Defenders.

Adopted in 2014, the Guidelines provide practical guidance to OSCE participating States and civil society on ensuring the effective protection of human rights defenders (HRDs). In light of evolving challenges across the region, ODIHR is conducting consultations in 2026 to ensure that the updated Guidelines reflect current trends and protection needs.

Focus of the meeting

Participants will discuss:

• Physical integrity, liberty, security and dignity of HRDs, including threats, attacks, judicial harassment and protection mechanisms
• Other aspects of a safe and enabling environment for human rights work, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, access to information, whistleblower protection and engagement with international bodies
• Gaps in the current Guidelines and recommendations for strengthening their content and implementation

The consultation will be held in an open discussion format and will contribute directly to the drafting of the updated Guidelines.

This meeting is organized with the support of UK International Development funding.

Participation will be by invitation only.