Defenders Coalition
The Defenders Coalition, formally known as the National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders - Kenya, is a pivotal organization incorporated as a Trust in the Republic of Kenya. Established to champion the safety and efficacy of human rights defenders (HRDs), the Coalition focuses on strengthening their capacity to operate effectively while minimizing risks of persecution. Its mission centers on fostering a supportive legal and policy environment in Kenya through advocacy, capacity building, and protection initiatives. The Defenders Coalition engages in various programs, including the Protection Programme, which develops preventative and intervention strategies to safeguard HRDs across diverse spaces. Additionally, it offers training through its eLibrary portal, providing professionally curated courses to enhance the skills of human rights practitioners. The organization also emphasizes institutional excellence, aiming to remain dynamic and sustainable by diversifying resources, leveraging ICT, and strengthening internal systems. As a member-driven entity, it collaborates with regional and global networks like DefendDefenders and CIVICUS, while holding observer status with the African Commission for Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR). Events such as the HRD Academy and Awards further highlight its commitment to recognizing and empowering defenders. For legal professionals seeking to understand or collaborate with human rights advocacy in Kenya, the Defenders Coalition offers a robust framework for engagement and support.
For more information, visit: https://defenderscoalition.org