The Executive Secretary of Human Rights Defenders Network – SL Mr Alphonsus B.M. Gbanie Attending the 2024 Dublin Platform for Human Rights Defenders in Ireland.

Friday 25th October 2024

The 2024 Dublin Platform for Human Rights Defenders was a powerful and inspiring gathering that brought together 104 Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) from 100 different countries. Organized by Front Line Defenders in Ireland, the event provided a vital space for HRDs to share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for advancing human rights in increasingly hostile environments.

The aims of the platform are to:

1. Analyze and expose the reality of the repression of human rights defenders and promote their work internationally.
2. Prioritize the sharing of experience so that human rights defenders can learn from each other and discuss what strategic lessons can be drawn for the prevention and minimization of risk.
3. Provide opportunities for participants to relate experiences, make practical recommendations in specific areas, and influence thinking at the international level.

Notable Interventions
Several HRDs delivered powerful speeches highlighting their experiences:

An HRD detailed some military brutality across the world of repression of peaceful protesters and the urgent need for international intervention.

An HRD shared the devastating impact of some rulers on women’s rights and called for global solidarity in supporting women activists.

A land rights defender exposed the growing violence against Indigenous communities protecting their territories from illegal mining and deforestation.

Outcomes and Way Forward

1. Networking and Solidarity
   The platform provided a valuable opportunity for HRDs to build alliances and networks across borders. Many participants emphasized the importance of these relationships in amplifying their voices and mobilizing international pressure against repressive regimes.
2. Call to Action for International Bodies
   Participants urged international human rights bodies to take more concrete actions in protecting HRDs, particularly in conflict zones. A collective declaration was made, calling on the United Nations and other international organizations to strengthen protection mechanisms and ensure accountability for human rights violations.
3. Commitment to Capacity Building
   The platform concluded with a commitment from Front Line Defenders and other organizations to continue providing training, funding, and protection for HRDs. Particular focus will be placed on digital security and well-being support to ensure that HRDs are better equipped to face the challenges ahead.

Conclusion
Mr Gbanie, attending the 2024 Dublin Platform for Human Rights Defenders was an enriching experience that highlighted both the immense challenges faced by HRDs globally and the remarkable resilience of those fighting for justice. The platform underscored the urgent need for collective action, support systems, and enhanced protection for HRDs, particularly as repressive tactics continue to evolve.

The participation of 104 HRDs from 100 countries reinforced the shared global struggle for human rights and the enduring belief that, together, change is possible.

By Anselm Desmond Nicol
Programs Manager – HRDN – SL