Photo: Protection International
Following the reduction of his unjustified prison sentence, the Burundian human rights defender is finally free! ISHR joins Germain and his family in their joy and thanks everyone who contributed to his release!
Germain’s release follows intense efforts by international human rights bodies, Burundian and international NGOs, and the diplomatic community.
After years behind bars, #Burundian #HumanRightsDefender Germain #Rukuki is finally free.
To all those who have contributed to this moment, we cannot thank you enough. pic.twitter.com/5cbKbltNM4— Protection International (@ProtectionInt) July 1, 2021
Germain should never have been arrested for peacefully carrying out his advocacy work. ISHR wishes Germain and his family the best with his newfound freedom!
The beginning of a new year coincides with the appointment of a new President for the Human Rights Council. On 11 February, ISHR hosted a civil society reception to welcome the 2025 President, Swiss ambassador Jürg Lauber, providing an opportunity for civil society, human rights experts, supporters and diplomats to meet and discuss challenges and opportunities in the year ahead.
The 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council (24 February to 4 April 2025) will discuss the protection of human rights defenders, freedom of religion, human rights while countering terrorism, and rights to food and housing. It will also address grave human rights issues in countries like Nicaragua, Venezuela, China, Syria, South Sudan, Iran, North Korea, Myanmar, Eritrea, and the occupied Palestinian territory/Israel, amongst others. Here’s an overview of some of the key issues on the agenda.
The UN Human Rights Council is crucial for rights holders, victims, and human rights defenders, offering a platform to pressure for national change, expose violations, seek accountability, and gain support for their work towards a fair, equal, and sustainable world.
