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With human rights defenders, we work for a world that is more just, equal and sustainable for all.

About us

We support human rights defenders. Here’s how.

Through our programmes, we support and act in solidarity with human rights defenders, contributing to a world that is fair, just and peaceful, in which all people can live free and equal, in communities that are diverse and inclusive.

Supporting defenders

Latest updates

Scope of transnational corporations treaty must include the environment and be defender- and community-centred

The open-ended intergovernmental working group (OEIGWG) on transnational corporations and other business enterprises with respect to human rights hosted the first and second Inter-Sessional meetings, which took place from 7 April through 9 April. States, legal experts and civil society organisations discussed key articles including scope, mutual legal assistance and future implementation of the Legally Binding Instrument (LBI).

Helping human rights defenders strengthen their advocacy skills with the UN

ISHR Academy is ISHR's e-learning space, helping human rights defenders strengthen their advocacy skills with the UN for greater impact on the ground. Our learning modules demystify the UN human rights system and build capacity to push for change. Discover new tools, insider tips, defender stories, and more!

Visit ISHR Academy

Human rights defenders' stories

'A desirable future would be a country full of peace and prosperity, where all genders would have access to their basic rights and to justice.'
Elham from Afghanistan See all stories

Our priorities

Women's rights

Women human rights defenders have historically been at the forefront of human rights progress relating to gender and equality, creating and implementing campaigns for change.

LGBTQI+ rights

LGBTQI+ rights defenders work toward enhanced respect, dignity, equality and a world free from violence and discrimination for their communities, for everyone!

Business and human rights

Responsible business should support human rights and people who defend them. Companies can take concrete actions to protect defenders and the 'shared space' in which both operate!

Land, climate and environment

Land, climate and environmental rights defenders work against the clock to address the climate crisis and help us all live on a healthy, sustainable planet.

Where we work

ISHR has permanent offices in Geneva and New York, enabling us to build and leverage our distinctive expertise and networks at the UN and among key diplomats for the benefit of defenders. ISHR establishes presences in strategic locations from time-to-time as is appropriate and necessary to best enable achievement of our goals. As is the case with our office in Abidjan in Cote d’Ivoire, such presences may include the co-location or secondment of ISHR staff with key national and regional human rights defender organisations or networks or the relocation of staff to provide enhanced access to key decision-makers.

Global support

Our impact

We support defenders, strengthen laws and systems for their protection and contribute to a safe and enabling environment for them at the national, regional and international levels.

  • 16945

    Number of people accessing information and support through the ISHR Academy in 2024.

  • 1318

    Number of human rights defenders to whom ISHR provided training or advocacy support in 2025.

  • 73%

    Percentage of recommendations made by ISHR and taken up by States in the Universal Periodic Review in 2023.

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