The Human Rights and Democracy Network (HRDN) has written a best practice guide as a practical, examples-based illustration of some good practices in communicating about HRDs at risk, in a way that is helpful to them and to other defenders, and hopefully maximises chances of securing their release, the dropping of charges against them, and the end of other forms of harassment. It also outlines unhelpful messages that can unwittingly undermine their protection. It also includes a ‘baseline’ asking the EU to always issue statements in case of the killing of a human rights defender, which should never be ignored. The EU and Member States committed to “improve public diplomacy and communication on its human rights actions” in the EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy.
We call on the EU and Member States to stand, publicly and privately for human rights defenders, and to promote their work, whenever possible.
Find the full guide here: Good practices