Recent studies have warned of attacks on human rights defenders, particularly advocating for the protection and upholding of the human rights of those who form part of the LGBTQI+ community. These defenders are known to be people working to end violence and discrimination solely based on sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual characteristics (SOGIESC). For a very long time, democracy and human rights have been under threat in the world. Human rights advocates are subjected to surveillance, slander, repressive laws, harassment, arrests, abductions, abuse, interrogation, anti-LGBTI movement, propaganda and murder throughout the globe, particularly in Africa. Thus, making democracy and freedom a myth for many. Democracy and the protection of human rights are only attainable when brave people and communities are prepared to fight for them. They must have the capacity and authority to carry on with their work. This is the main reason SOGIESC human rights defenders are an integral part of fighting the struggle for the disenfranchised group. It is imperative for us not to only benefit from their work but to see them, acknowledge them, and protect them. Human Rights defenders, activists and advocates can be a source of gaining a better understanding of the work done, advocacy strategy or strategic litigation to uphold human rights for all. This session was an open discussion, firstly, intended to highlight safety concerns human rights defenders find themselves in. Secondly, to illuminate the support structures (accessibility emergency support ) already in place to assist human rights defenders should they find themselves in a dangerous place and prone to potential danger. Thirdly, what are the safety and security protocols in place within the region? Lastly, what mechanisms are put in place for anti-LGBTQIA+ movement raids?

Islam is a justice-oriented ideology when viewed as greater than being a religion. The South African Muslim community has a legacy of freedom fighters and human rights defenders who subscribe to this wider ideology. Fatima Noordien and Arshaad Fredericks are two such people. Fatima Noordien speaks about the activism of women in Islam towards their own widened liberation as well as to their contribution to the protection of human rights within the wider society. She contextualises the pursuit of justice within the complexity of society. Arshaad Fredericks shares the lived reality within a system of institutionalised oppression.

The first session in this Protecting Human Rights Defenders seminar series honours the memory of the late Sikhosiphi “Bazooka” Rhadebe. His death is one example indicating the necessity for protective mechanisms to be established and strengthened to protect those who stand against social and environmental injustices.