National Coalition Launched to Protect Human Rights Defenders in DRC

Kinshasa, May 1, 2026 - A new national coalition aimed at strengthening the protection of human rights defenders has been launched in the Democratic Republic of Congo, bringing together civil society actors, organizations, and institutional stakeholders under a coordinated framework.

The initiative, unveiled in Kinshasa, follows a three-day workshop that gathered human rights defenders, organization leaders, and authorities to address challenges related to the promotion and protection of fundamental rights. The coalition seeks to improve coordination, enhance information sharing, and reinforce collective responses to threats faced by civil society actors.

Structured around key priorities, the platform focuses on the protection of defenders, capacity building, and joint advocacy. It aims to provide both preventive and active protection mechanisms, while supporting defenders through training in areas such as digital security, physical safety, and documentation of human rights violations.

The creation of the coalition marks a significant step in a process that has spanned nearly two decades, during which previous attempts at establishing a unified structure had struggled to reach consensus. With this development, the DRC joins a broader continental network of similar coalitions established across Africa.

The launch comes despite recent legislative progress, including the adoption of a law in 2023 establishing a legal framework for the protection and responsibilities of human rights defenders. However, challenges persist, particularly in conflict-affected regions in the east of the country, where insecurity and political tensions continue to expose activists to risks.

Civil society representatives emphasized the importance of the coalition as a tool to safeguard civic space and strengthen solidarity among defenders. The event also featured the presentation of a report highlighting the current situation of human rights defenders, described as a call for urgent action to ensure safer working conditions.

Participants paid tribute to defenders who lost their lives in the line of duty, underscoring the importance of preserving their memory while continuing efforts to protect those still at risk.

Speakers at the event stressed the need for unity and collaboration, noting that isolated defenders are more vulnerable to threats, while collective action enhances their ability to engage effectively with institutions. Calls were also made to ensure greater inclusion of marginalized groups, including Indigenous defenders, within the coalition.