📋 Tender Overview
A Norwegian-led resolution on human rights defenders has been unanimously adopted by the UN. It is important that UN member states jointly recognize the important and legitimate efforts of human rights defenders worldwide says Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt.Norway has played a leading role in the UN in developing the framework for human rights defenders ever since the UN Declaration on this was adopted more than 20 years ago.The Covid-19 pandemic and intrusive infection control measures have exacerbated negative developments in many countries. This has led to increased pressure on human rights and the distribution of power and the rule of law. This has also worsened the situation for human rights defenders. Many human rights defenders are exposed to threats and violence as a result of their work.The resolution adopted on 18 November recognizes the contribution of human rights defenders during the pandemic and the responsibility of states to protect those who stand up for human rights. This is not least important for those who work for human rights issues related to the environment as the resolution recognizes. The resolution also confirms that the right to protection applies in the digital space which is important as the needs for protection against digital threats harassment and digital surveillance have increased during the pandemic.Human rights defenders play a significant role in promoting peace democracy and sustainable development. They are important to ensure that the response to and reconstruction following the pandemic is based on human rights and the rule of law. They also have a central role in safeguarding the sustainability agendas premise that no one should be left out. I am therefore very pleased that the UN has now adopted this resolution says Huitfeldt.Female human rights defenders are particularly vulnerable to sexual harassment and violence. Many people also experience being incited or exposed to smear campaigns online and through social media. The resolution states that there is a need to implement good and practical measures to protect women human rights defenders also in the digital space.Young people have been prominent in many social and political movements. They are exposed to threats and discrimination as a result of their commitment and age.In this resolution UN member states recognize that young people are key contributors to the promotion and protection of human rights and emphasize the responsibility of states to facilitate young peoples involvement.
