In partnership with national coalitions representing activists in Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Sierra Leone, and Niger, ISHR has released a compilation of effective methods for safeguarding human rights defenders and facilitating their essential activities during emergencies.
The impact of global health measures on civic space
The introduction of lockdowns and various restrictive protocols to curb the COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally transformed the operational landscape for human rights defenders. Beyond the routine obstacles they face, the management of the health crisis by several African governments has led to a noticeable contraction of the democratic and civic environment in a region where such space is already structurally constrained. In these specific contexts, ensuring that those defending human rights can continue their advocacy and field work remains a critical priority.
Analyzing restrictions and resilience in West Africa
This research provides a detailed analysis of how COVID-19 emergency measures have influenced the rights and liberties of defenders in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Niger, and Sierra Leone. It highlights the innovative strategies implemented by civil society organizations to maintain their operations despite coercive regulations. Additionally, the study recognizes the positive contributions and efforts from certain states and various partners that have supported these activists. The publication concludes with a series of targeted recommendations to strengthen the safety of human rights defenders and protect civic space during future crises.
As a specialized advocacy tool, this research is intended for use with national, regional, and international human rights bodies. Its goal is to challenge the inappropriate application of emergency measures and to guarantee that human rights defenders are protected at all times, regardless of the political or social climate.
