Karis Moses

As part of our #WellbeingInAdversity campaign, we recently took time to check in with a few HRDs in person and ask a simple but important question: "How are you?" Today, we'd like to ask you the same question. How are you? #WellbeingInAdversity

As has become our tradition every June since 2020, DefendDefenders is once again dedicating this month to the wellbeing of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) as part of our broader commitment to holistic protection. Earlier this year, 2026 was declared the African Human Rights Defenders' Wellness Year, reaffirming the importance of prioritising the wellbeing of HRDs across the continent. In this spirit, this year's theme, "Wellbeing in Adversity," acknowledges the challenges HRDs face while celebrating their resilience and affirming that wellbeing is essential to sustaining human rights work. We started this year's campaign a little differently. Before the discussions, activities, and reflections, our Wellbeing Lead, @OtebaKMo , took a moment to ask a simple but important question: "How are you doing?" The question was posed to some HRDs, DefendDefenders staff members, and our Executive Director, @Hassan_shire. Their responses remind us that behind every HRD is a human being navigating day-to-day challenges, shrinking civic space, uncertainty, and pressure, while demonstrating resilience and striving to care for themselves as they care for others. HRDs cannot sustainably carry out their work if they themselves are unsupported, overwhelmed, or burnt out. Join us throughout June as we explore what wellbeing means in the face of adversity. For now, listen to their reflections and hear how they are navigating these challenging times. Watch the full video here: youtu.be/NmRzpeqWHvw #WellbeingInAdversity #HRDWellbeing

In 2005, DefendDefenders (East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Project) was registered as a regional non-governmental organisation. That same year, we convened our first Human Rights Defenders Conference in October in Entebbe, Uganda, bringing together 43 human rights defenders (HRDs) from across East and the Horn of Africa. The participants shared experiences, recognised that they faced many of the same challenges, and forged lasting bonds of solidarity. Twenty years later, over the next two days, we are celebrating two decades of defending and promoting the work of HRDs. We are gathered once again, this time with more than 100 delegates, including HRDs, global champions, activists, and policymakers. The room is filled with an air of celebration and reflection as we come together to reimagine safety and solidarity for human rights defenders in shifting global trends. #20YearsDefending

As we continue the wellbeing campaign, we remind human rights defenders (HRD’s) that your wellbeing matters too. Let this be your nudge to pause, breathe, and make space for you. Because the work you do for others starts with how well you care for yourself. #DefendingRightsProtectingMinds #20YearsDefending

Human rights defenders (HRDs), driven by passion and urgency, often prioritise justice for the oppressed and marginalised over their own wellbeing. While this commitment can be deeply rewarding, especially when their efforts lead to change or recognition of others’ suffering, the emotional and physical toll of constant self-sacrifice threatens both their sustainability and overall health. In today’s wellbeing tip, @OtebaKMo, our Senior Protection Officer and Wellbeing Lead, encourages HRDs to take time for themselves: rest, exercise, and even do something as simple as staying hydrated. HRDs can’t pour from an empty cup. #DefendingrightsProtectingminds #20YearsDefending

Contrary to the popular belief that self-care is a luxury, Gugu Shabalala, a psychosocial professional reminds us that it is a necessity for human rights defenders (HRDs) as they fight for the rights of the marginalised and oppressed. She urges HRDs to prioritise their mental wellbeing to remain resilient and compassionate in their advocacy. According to her, human rights defenders illuminate the path to justice, but their light can dim under the weight of their struggles. #DefendingRightsProtectingMinds #20YearsDefending

In this short video, @OtebaKMo shares practical advice on setting boundaries, learning to say 'no,' accepting 'no' as an answer, and staying mindful of others. A gentle reminder that wellness also means respecting limits, ours and theirs. #DefendingRightsProtectingMinds #20YearsDefending #WellnessTip

Today, we launch our monthlong wellbeing campaign, with our Executive Director @HassanShire highlighting the immense emotional strain human rights defenders (HRDs) face while fighting for the marginalised. Since 2005, DefendDefenders has recognised the need for psychosocial support of HRDs. A decade later, in 2015, we launched our wellbeing program, providing critical mental health support to defenders. Amidst rising threats and shrinking civic space, HRDs' mental wellbeing is more crucial than ever. This month, we’re equipping HRDs with tools and knowledge to manage stress and trauma, prioritising their mental health and wellbeing. #DefendingRightsProtectingMinds #20YearsDefending

In a well moderated panel discussion led by our Senior Protection Officer and Wellbeing Lead, @OtebaKMo, panellists from various protection service providers and a representative from @hrdburundi reflected on 20 years of protecting HRDs in exile, sharing achievements, ongoing challenges, and the road ahead. Key highlights included the prolonged and uncertain process that many exiled HRDs face in securing asylum or refugee status—often waiting months or even years for documentation. Panellists also underscored the difficult conditions in refugee settlements, ongoing security concerns, the emotional toll of displacement, and the impact of forgotten or overlooked conflicts. The discussion called for greater coordination, shorter processing timelines, and stronger, grassroots-led support systems tailored to the unique needs of exiled HRDs. #EmpoweringExiledHRDs #PSP2025 #20YearsDefending

Our Executive Director, @Hassan_shire in anticipation of International Human Rights Day tomorrow, encouraged all in attendance to reflect on the theme "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now" by considering these critical questions: What is the impact of your work on national, regional, and global issues? How do you measure your successes to shape practical solutions to global challenges? Are you countering negative stereotypes and misconceptions? Do your daily actions mobilise and reinvigorate the global human rights movement? This call to introspection reminds us of the collective responsibility to advance human rights and secure a brighter future for all. #IHRD2024 #SafeButNotSilent #HumanRights4All

We also honored our long-serving team members! Congratulations to Raphael Okudo, senior office messenger, and Daphne Nakabugo, data management lead, for 5 years of dedicated service, and a special tribute to @OtebaKMo, senior protection officer and wellbeing lead, for 10 years of commitment. We’re grateful for your dedication to our vision and mission in supporting HRDs and their work.