AfricanDefenders (the Pan-African Human Rights Defenders Network) provides fast, flexible support to students, activists and human rights defenders across Africa who face threats because of their peaceful work. The network coordinates the Ubuntu Hub Cities relocation programme and works with five regional HRD networks to offer protection, emergency assistance and safe relocation when needed.
Who they support #
AfricanDefenders assists any peaceful human rights defender, including students, youth activists, journalists, writers, LGBTQI+ defenders, environmental and climate activists, disability rights advocates, women human rights defenders, land and Indigenous rights defenders, migrant and refugee rights groups, artivists, bloggers, and many others. Both individuals and organisations (registered or not) can apply.
What support is available #
Support can include:
- Emergency assistance such as legal fees, bail, medical care, safe housing or secure transport
- Relocation, evacuation, rest and respite, or repatriation through the Ubuntu Hub Cities programme
- Psychosocial assistance and wellbeing support
- Digital and physical security resources, equipment and expert support
- Advocacy, trial monitoring, risk assessments, and mentorship
- Short courses or language training for personal development
AfricanDefenders also provides non-financial help such as advocacy at the UN and AU levels, linking and learning opportunities, fact-finding, and a 24/7 security helpline.
How to apply #
AfricanDefenders accepts applications on a rolling basis. You can request support in any of the following ways:
- By email:
- Through their website: https://www.africandefenders.org
- Via social media channels (direct message)
- Through referrals from trusted organisations
- Emergency helpline (24/7): +256 783 027 611
Most urgent protection requests receive a response within 48 hours.
Where to learn more #
Visit AfricanDefenders to see current guidance, programmes and contact options:
👉 https://www.africandefenders.org
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