Latest updates

ISHR is launching two new interactive tools to strengthen diplomatic initiatives to support human rights defenders. One tool designed for diplomats and the other for defenders; the resources provide practical guidance on how to enhance diplomatic support for defenders to prevent risks, respond to threats and better protect those working to promote and defend human rights. The tools will be available in English, French and Spanish.

The Special Rapporteur on Adequate Housing presented his final report on his visit to Guatemala, with recommendations seeking to address decades of displacement, dispossession of land against Indigenous Peoples, and the criminalisation of defenders.

Following the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders to the Human Rights Council, ISHR commended her work, denounced human rights violations and encouraged the next mandate-holder to continue the effective work of the protecting defenders worldwide in collaboration with regional mechanisms.

At a high-level panel on the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, ISHR called on States to renew their commitments towards its full implementation.

During HRC61 debate with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism, Antoine Gliksohn, Executive Director of the Global Albinism Alliance delivered a joint statement with ISHR. Read and watch the statement below.

Ahead of International Women’s Day, ISHR and over 40 organisations supported a joint statement delivered by AWID calling for recognition of women and girls’ full dignity, equality and humanity, not just in words but in policies, in budgets, and implementation. Read the full statement below.

ISHR along with Amnesty International and other civil society organisations submit recommendations for the sixth biennial report of the Secretary-General on the status of the UN human rights treaty bodies.

The Human Rights Council President has proposed that States select Bolaños Vargas as the Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders by the end of the body’s ongoing 61st session.

A cross-regional coalition of 90 States have issued a joint declaration at the UN Human Rights Council emphasising the critical need to defend multilateralism amidst escalating global conflicts and eroding respect for international law and human rights.

Ahead of his opening address to the UN Human Rights Council, 26 civil society organisations, including ISHR, are calling on High Commissioner Volker Türk to detail investigations into China’s alleged atrocity crimes.

As the Human Rights Council marks its 20th anniversary, 26 civil society organisations have outlined key expectations for the incoming Council President and Bureau.

On behalf of a coalition of NGOs that closely engage with the General Assembly Third Committee, ISHR’s Maithili Pai delivered a joint statement during an informal meeting between the Chair and civil society surrounding the thematic focus of 'Civil Society Perspectives on Strengthening Working Methods and Delivering on Mandates.'