Introduction

On 10 December 2023, The Youth Cafe will be part of the United Nations' celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Willice Onyango, Executive Director at The Youth Cafe, will be part of a panel discussing ‘Regional Perspectives on Human Rights Defenders' Impact on Protecting Civic Space.’

The Declaration was first proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on December 10 1948, and sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected.  

The UN announced in 2022 a year-long initiative focusing on universality, progress and engagement, which will culminate in a high-level event in December 2023.

The opening words of the UN Charter, “We the Peoples”, reflect the fundamental principle of democracy as the people’s self-determination.  Democracy is the only environment that respects and guarantees human rights and fundamental freedoms and in which the freely expressed will of people is exercised.  As a multi-stakeholder coalition that seeks to advance democracy globally, the Global Democracy Coalition includes more than 100 democratic organizations, many of which are working to promote fundamental human rights as proclaimed in the UDHR.

Event description

Human rights activists and defenders play a pivotal role in safeguarding the fundamental principles of human rights, justice and democracy. Their unwavering commitment to the cause is the driving force behind progress and positive change. This event proposes a series of regional discussions that will bring together prominent panellists who have dedicated their lives to defending and promoting human rights. These panels serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those on the front lines of human rights advocacy and celebrate the courage and resilience of human rights defenders.

Objectives

The primary objectives of these regional discussions are the following:

·        To provide a platform for human rights activists and defenders to share their experiences, challenges, and successes within their respective regions.

·        To explore the common challenges faced by human rights defenders globally and discuss potential solutions.

·        To discuss the potential backlash experienced by individuals and organizations involved in human rights work.

·        To explore support mechanisms for human rights activists and organizations.

Proposed Structure

The event will feature five regional discussions, where expert panellists will deliberate on the unique challenges, experiences, and opportunities within their respective regions. Following these discussions, a closing session will synthesize and highlight key insights from each region.