We Exist Despite their Violence

Twenty-two years have passed since the issuance of the Declaration on the “Protection of Human Rights Defenders”, and eight years since the Resolution 68/181”Protection of women human rights defenders” was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 18, 2013. There is an urgent need to identify the most prominent challenges and difficulties WHRDs have faced in the MENA, record their experiences, bring recognition for their work, look for the tools and means that enable a safe and empowering environment, and ensure that their struggle to demand and defend human rights is fully valued. This report highlights the most prominent trends and contribution of WHRDs in the Middle East and North Africa, not only to the women’s rights and promotion of gender equality but also to the promotion of democracy, peace, and human rights. The report also documents the strategies and tactics used to target women in general and silence WHRDs in particular. It also shows the devastating effects on their lives, families, and organizations. In addition, the report outlines the strategies and sets a series of recommendations that allow WHRDs to sustain their work despite the risks.
The ideas and recommendations presented in this report were developed during a regional meeting that was held in Istanbul, Turkey, from December 16 to December 20, 2021