The role of human rights defenders in promoting and protecting human rights

This thematic webinar will reflect on the role of human rights defenders in promoting and protecting human rights across the OSCE region over the past 30 years - including the role of national human rights institutions (NHRIs).

This online panel discussion will examine challenges facing defenders, taking into account the specific challenges that arise in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The webinar will seek to identify measures that governments should take to address these challenges in line with their commitments, highlighting good practices relating to the protection of human rights defenders.

Topics

The panel discussion will aim to answer the following questions:

• What is the role of NHRIs and other human rights defenders in promoting and protecting human rights?
• What are challenges facing human rights defenders, including NHRIs, in the context of or as a result of their human rights work?
• What are the specific COVID-19 related challenges for human rights defenders, including NHRIs?
• What measures should be taken to address these challenges?
• What examples are there of positive measures taken by OSCE participating States, including in the area of human rights education, relating to the protection of human rights defenders and enabling their work?

Speakers

Speaking at the webinar will be: 

• Professor Mary Lawlor, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders
• Ms. Erinda Ballanca, People's Advocate of Albania, People's Advocate Institution
• Mr. Yuri Dzhibladze, President of the Centre for the Development of Democracy and Human Rights and Member of the Coordinating Committee of the Civic Solidarity Platform
• Mr. Gerald Staberock, Secretary General of the World Organization Against Torture (OMCT)