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In a first-of-its-kind investigation into the closed-door negotiations of the UN’s budget in New York, ISHR uncovers how a small group of States - led by China and Russia - have coordinated efforts to block and slash funding for the UN’s human rights work through political manoeuvring and influence. At a moment of sweeping UN reform and financial crisis, these efforts - compounded by the US failure to pay their UN membership fees and outstanding debts - pose an existential threat to the UN’s human rights system.

As world leaders gather for the UN General Assembly, over 270 civil society groups from across the globe issue an open letter urging Member States to safeguard international refugee, human rights, and humanitarian treaties from attacks by the US and other States.

Organisations from around the world condemn US and UK sanctions targeting human rights organisations and stand in solidarity with human rights defenders working to uphold international law in the face of Israel’s genocide and colonial apartheid against the Palestinian people.

US sanctions against UN Special Procedures and International Criminal Court judges and officials violate human rights, betray victims and undermine justice and the rule of law.

During the 58th regular session of the Human Rights Council, ISHR delivered a statement during the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders affirming that human rights, peace and security are deeply interconnected, and the importance of the international system to human rights defenders.

Threats by US lawmakers of retaliation against the International Criminal Court, as well as those that cooperate with it, in relation to potential charges against senior Israeli officials violate international law.

Over 170 organisations demand that States that have provided and continue to provide arms and other forms of military assistance to Israel, adhere to their legal obligations and act resolutely and urgently to prevent Israel from perpetuating further international crimes and other serious violations of international law. This includes their obligations to prevent the commission of genocide.

ISHR and a coalition of NGOs organised an event on Capitol Hill to celebrate human rights defenders and urge the international community to stand with and support defenders worldwide.

ISHR has published ‘scorecards’ for States seeking election to the UN Human Rights Council for 2023-2025 to help inform voting States’ decisions in the upcoming election.

At HRC49, ISHR and Global Black called on States to expose and oppose laws that curtail the ability to address racism and encourage countries to embrace history and data as evidence of a true commitment to build societies that are more just and equitable.