KAMPALA – The National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders Uganda (NCHRD-U) on Thursday launched a comprehensive report on the assessment survey of present-day emergency protection services for Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) in Uganda. The study evaluates the understanding, availability, accessibility, quality, and sustainability of protection services for HRDs.
Robert Kirenga, Team Lead at NCHRD-U, emphasized, “The work of human rights defenders is a risky job. Often, while in the field, they face numerous challenges. This report assesses 140 service providers to understand the extent of HRDs’ awareness, accessibility, quality, and sustainability of protection services. We found that many human rights defenders understand the existence of emergency and protection services, but those accessing them are mostly urban-based, while grassroots defenders struggle to access these services.”
Kirenga further noted, “Some defenders were happy with the services offered, whereas others weren’t. They cited concerns such as unclear psychosocial support services and insufficient time allocations. Our goal is to address these gaps and ensure that HRDs receive comprehensive support.”
Uganda has a concerning track record of human rights violations, affecting various segments of the population. These violations include restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly, arbitrary arrests and detention, torture and ill-treatment, land rights violations, labor exploitation, gender-based violence, and discrimination against marginalized groups, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.
The report sheds light on the strengths and gaps within the sector, providing valuable insights to shape strategies for improving emergency protection services. Key findings reveal that 90% of respondents are aware of HRD protection services, but struggle to distinguish between preventive and emergency services. Legal services are most critical, especially during high-risk events like national elections or contentious legislative processes.
Uganda hosts over 500 registered human rights organizations, with HRDs playing a crucial role in promoting and protecting human rights. According to the Uganda Human Rights Commission, HRDs have contributed significantly to:
- Promoting civic education and voter registration (75% of HRDs engaged in electoral processes)
- Advocating for policy reforms (60% of HRDs influenced policy changes)
- Providing legal aid and support (80% of HRDs offered legal assistance)
- Documenting human rights abuses (90% of HRDs reported human rights violations).
Over 140 service providers exist, including trusted providers like Uganda Police, religious leaders, and peer support groups. However, limited coordination among stakeholders leads to issues like fraud, duplication, and competition. Only 35% of respondents found emergency protection services accessible at the national level, and 33% at the regional level.
Robert Ssempala, Executive Director at Human Rights Network for Journalists in Uganda, welcomed the report, saying, “It’s timely and brings to the fore voices of human rights defenders from rural areas. The report will help us scale our impact, address weaknesses, and bridge gaps to make the human rights defenders’ spectrum a strong pillar for democracy.”
Ssempala added, “Interestingly, the report shows that grassroots human rights defenders find the police helpful, which is rare. This indicates potential areas of collaboration and strengthening partnerships. We must work together to address the challenges HRDs face and ensure their safety and security.”
The report highlights the need for ongoing efforts to strengthen institutions, systems, and coordination mechanisms. NCHRD-U’s central role in improving access, availability, and quality of emergency protection services is recognized and applauded.
“We call upon all stakeholders, including media personnel, government, HRDs, development partners, and others, to join us in providing HRD protection services to human rights defenders in Uganda,” said the NCHRD-U.
By launching this report, NCHRD-U aims to ensure every HRD in Uganda can access high-quality protection services whenever needed. This collaborative effort seeks to create a safer, more enabling environment for HRDs to continue their vital work in promoting and protecting human rights.
