The Safety and Security Clinic
The Safety and Security Clinic empowers journalists and Human rights defenders, especially women, to continue their essential work while prioritizing their physical, digital safety and mental well-being. Human rights defenders often risk their lives fighting for what should be an aspiration for all – more just and peaceful societies. Their role is recognized as essential to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development . Yet, in most parts of the world, human rights defenders face incredible threats of intimidation or reprisal. The toll on mental well-being cannot be understated. The psychological strain of witnessing and reporting on traumatic events, coupled with the constant pressure and threat of reprisal, weighs heavily on their shoulders.
. By raising their voices for the voiceless, defenders become the enemy of the powerful – governments, armed and criminal groups, and private corporations. Women are even more vulnerable subjected to gender-based intimidation, abuse, and threats intended to silence their voices and impede their so important work. Every year, thousands of them endure smear campaigns, threats and intimidation, arbitrary arrest, lengthy judicial proceedings, enforced disappearance and even murder. Official statistics on the number of human rights defenders killed each year are limited. In 2021, the UN recorded 320 fatal attacks against human rights defenders, journalists and trade unionists in 35 countries. Disturbingly, in 2022, over 400 human rights defenders were murdered, the highest number ever recorded. This bleak trend does not seem to be decreasing in 2023. With those responsible not being held to account, killings are more likely to continue.
Recognizing the urgency to address these multifaceted threats, MENA-can support holistically the safety and security of human Rights defenders through its “Safety and Security Clinic”. We have a dedicated team of Arabic speakers’ trainers and we provide tailored gender-conflict sensitive resources and interventions that encompass:
• Digital Security Training: Recognizing the importance of safeguarding sensitive information in today’s digital age, the Clinic conducts comprehensive training in digital security. Journalists are equipped with strategies and tools to protect their online presence, data, and communications. This training is crucial in defending against cyber threats and ensuring the safety of their sources and materials. • Physical Skills Training: Human Rights Defenders often find themselves in physically demanding or hazardous situations while covering stories or providing services to their communities. The Clinic provides training in physical skills and safety protocols to navigate challenging environments. This includes strategies for risk assessment, personal safety and emergency response to better handle and mitigate risks they might encounter
. • Psychosocial Support: The Clinic provides psychosocial support training, including women-only sessions, as well as access to professional counselling services, offering a safe and confidential space for defenders to discuss their emotional challenges. This support aims to address the emotional toll of their work, such as exposure to trauma, stress, and the pressures. The Clinic offers a network of support and resources, connecting defenders with a community of peers and experts who understand the unique challenges of their profession. This network provides a platform for sharing experiences, advice, and best practices, fostering a supportive environment. So that defenders can continue their so essential Human rights work with strengthened support and resources.