FreedomLab is a virtual gathering place for human rights defenders. Here you will find a repository of training materials, tutorials, and digital tools, all tailored to your needs and requirements. FreedomLab is a space to connect with other human rights defenders, ask questions and initiate collaborations. We hope you will exchange notes on tools, experiences, advocacy and fundraising strategies as well as knowledge and skills related to security. Through mutual support and collaboration, human rights defenders increase their capacity to monitor and report, seek redress, and advocate for the promotion of human rights.
The content on this platform is categorized into three sections: the Training Center, the Tool Library, and NHRI Resources. The Training Center contains online courses and educational material created by experts that relate to different facets of the work that human rights defenders undertake. The Tool Library is an online repository of different softwares, apps, and resources that can benefit your work – give it a browse to see if anything is of interest! Finally, the NHRI Resources tab compiles educational content that those working in National Human Rights Institutions may find useful and beneficial.
This platform was developed by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in partnership with Benetech.
A Documentary About the Work of Human Rights Defenders
Human rights defenders act for the protection and realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms. They recognize the universality of human rights for all without distinction of any kind, and they defend human rights by peaceful means.
It is through the work of human rights defenders, that State authorities obtain a clearer and more realistic picture of how citizens are able to exercise their rights and fundamental freedoms and which reforms are required to meet the human rights standards enshrined in international treaties and national constitutions.
Yet, in spite of their important contribution, human rights defenders are often subjected to intimidation and harassment including smear campaigns, criminalization, and arrest. In many countries, restrictions have been imposed which limit the space for civil society work, these affect human rights defenders.