Civil Rights Defenders

Civil Rights Defenders is an independent expert organisation founded in Stockholm, Sweden in 1982, with the aim of defending people’s civil and political rights. Our work stretches from our own backyard to countries and regions all over the world. One of our main tasks is to empower our partners – brave human rights defenders, who often put themselves at great risk through their engagement in other people’s rights. We believe that a world where people’s rights and liberties are respected is a safer world to live in. Our vision is based on the Helsinki Accords, from 1975, which acknowledged that respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is a significant factor for peace, justice and the development of friendly relations between states. To achieve our vision, we strive to ensure that people are able to enjoy their civil and political rights.