A recent study by the Belgrade Center for Security Policies explores the protection mechanisms available to human rights defenders in six countries: Colombia, Mexico, DR Congo, the Philippines, Turkey, and Serbia. Despite the existence of legal and institutional tools at international and national levels, the study finds that defenders remain exposed to serious threats, including police repression, smear campaigns, and judicial harassment. The analysis highlights a significant gap between legal guarantees and their implementation, particularly in politically hostile environments. It underscores the need for stronger, context-specific protection measures, given that the work of defenders often challenges the interests of powerful state and corporate actors. Read more here.
Source: Belgrade Centre for Security Policies
