INVITATION to the side event: IN DEFENCE OF CIVIC SPACE AND DEMOCRACY SUPPORTING THE WORK OF HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS on Monday 26 February 2024, 1pm – 2pm CET, Room XXII, Palais des Nations, Geneva

Human rights defenders promote democracy and a vibrant civic space, too often, in dangerous circumstances. This event aims to discuss the crucial work of defenders, how the international community can best support them and how crucial gender equality is for the full realisation of democracy.

Speakers: 

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Leader of democratic forces (Belarus)

Dr. Sara Abdelgalil, Paediatric Consultant NHS UK, Democracy & Governance Advocate, Active member of Sudanese Diaspora

Phil Lynch, Executive Director, International Service for Human Rights

Elina Valtonen, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Finland

Moderator: Imogen Foulkes, BBC Geneva

A light lunch will be served. The event will be recorded and published as a podcast (Inside Geneva, produced by Swiss Broadcasting).

Download flyer here

This post was originally published on Hans Thoolen on Human Rights Defenders and their awards.