Taking Environmental Law to the People
Executive Summary
Confronting the climate and ecological emergency in East Africa depends not only on crafting robust environmental laws and policies, but also on supporting lawyers and civil society actors who strive to monitor and uphold them. This brief focuses on environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs) who are undervalued and unprotected.
Introduction
Confronting the climate and ecological emergency in East Africa depends not only on crafting robust environmental laws and policies, but also on supporting lawyers and civil society actors who strive to monitor and uphold them. This brief focuses on a persistent problem that environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs) are undervalued and unprotected by governments and international actors.
Environmental Commitments
The report sets out progressive environmental regimes and commitments adopted by governments in this region as a reminder of their existing obligations. It illustrates how EHRDs work as intermediaries between communities and decision-makers, monitoring environmental compliance and advocating for stronger protections.
Challenges and Recommendations
Despite their critical role, EHRDs face significant challenges including lack of recognition, inadequate protection mechanisms, and limited resources. The report provides concrete recommendations for strengthening support for environmental defenders across the region.
Access Full Report
For the complete analysis, detailed findings, and comprehensive recommendations, download the full report or read it online on DefendDefenders.org.
Related Reports
Rocky Ground and Shifting Sands
Africa is entering a busy election schedule. This report examines upcoming elections in Burundi, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda, highlighting the challenges and risks faced by HRDs working on the electoral processes, pro-democracy activists, journalists, political parties (mostly those in opposition), and local communities.
Read Report
AGAINST ALL ODDS: Assessing the Consequences of Shrinking Civic Space on Women Human Rights Defenders
South Sudanese women have been pivotal in the pursuit of peace and human rights. Despite their resilience and significant contributions, WHRDs in South Sudan face a hostile environment shaped by deeply entrenched patriarchal values.
Read Report
Pushing Boundaries: The case of East and Horn of Africa's youth human rights defenders
DefendDefenders and AfricanDefenders present a comprehensive summary of the case of East and Horn of Africa's youth human rights defenders. The report focuses on understanding their working environment, analyses the drivers that influence young people's actions as HRDs, and examines the emerging trends in youth mobilisation.
Read Report