2025 Human Rights Defender Advocacy Programme (HRDAP) participants and ISHR staff in front of the UN building in Geneva ©Ben Buckland for ISHR
Here at ISHR we are constantly being inspired by the brave people taking action to defend human rights and want to share some of their stories with you.
Stephania Koulaeva, from ADC Memorial in Russia, battles government oppression and works on a broad range of discrimination issues. Despite facing political repression, her focus expands beyond national borders to include international advocacy for change.
Angela Mudukuti, lawyer at the Southern Africa Litigation Centre, champions corporate accountability for human rights violations in Southern Africa, emphasising litigation and advocacy against entities complicit in crimes against humanity.
Nora Bowier champions community rights in Liberia's extractive sector, facing challenges from corporate influence to inadequate human rights oversight, advocating for lasting change beyond 2016's focus on women's rights.
Alberto Solis Castro highlights the struggles of indigenous communities in Mexico against the overpowering influence of international businesses and the government's role in repressing local opposition to protect corporate interests.
Will McCallum of Greenpeace UK delves into his advocacy for environmental rights amidst governmental pushback and legislation limiting NGO activities.
Jean-Pierre Okenda champions human rights in the DRC's extractive sector, advocating for legal reforms and community empowerment.
Muchamad Darisman advocates for workers' rights in Indonesia's rapid industrial growth, facing challenges from restrictive legislation and the influence of foreign corporations.
Attila Mraz of the Hungarian Civil Liberties Union champions political participatory rights amidst Hungary's diminishing democratic space, advocating for fair practices, and legal reforms.
Lira Ismailova, from Bir Duino Kyrgyzstan, advocates against restrictive laws and Russian influence, striving to safeguard civil society space and support human rights defenders.
Soraya Aziz Souleymane leverages her corporate background to advocate for community rights and governance in the DRC's mining sector, emphasising collaboration and strategic engagement for change.
Kaona Saowakun, a dedicated advocate from Thailand, champions LGBTQI rights and acceptance of transgender individuals amidst societal discrimination and legal challenges.
Erik-Aimé Semien discusses his role in advocating for human rights and democracy in post-conflict Côte d'Ivoire, emphasising the importance of combating impunity and fostering inclusive institutions.
