Protection Desks are an innovative approach to the field protection of human rights defenders. The outcome of over 25 years combined field and theoretical experience in protection of human rights defenders; they aim to provide ongoing support to local human rights defenders in security and protection management in order that those defenders in turn can offer greater protection to the victims and witnesses they work with.

Working in close conjunction with local human rights organisations and defenders Protection Desks are set up in order to train local defenders (HRD) and organisations (HRO) in improving security measures and protection mechanisms. Where HRO or HRD networks or units already exist Protection Desks are set up to complement their activities by working with the organisation or network/unit in the development of capacity building and training activities according to the needs of the network/unit.

Protection Desks aim to support local HRO and HRD, IDPs, victims and other vulnerable groups in mainstreaming their protection into the agenda of State Authorities, national and international organisations and Foreign Governments

Objectives:

1. To contribute to the development of organisational security plans for HRD and HRO.
2. To assist HRD and HRO in overcoming obstacles to effective security management through on going consultations.
3. To establish a “best practice” approach to tackling problems faced by HRD and other vulnerable groups.
4. To promote the respect of the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders adopted unanimously by the UN General Assembly in March 1998

Activities:

1. To provide rights focused capacity building and training to HRD and HRO on how to develop security plans and bring about organisational change towards improved security management.
2. To provide ongoing assistance in the development of protection measures for HRD and HRO on a case by case basis.
3. Develop the www.protectionline.org website to facilitate an exchange of information and case studies between HRD and HRO around the world.
4. To disseminate information on the situation of HRD through publications, urgent actions, press releases and periodic reviews of both national and international mechanisms for the protection of HRD.
5. Organisation and support of conferences, seminars and forums where experiences are exchanged and combined strategies for the protection of HRD and other vulnerable groups can be developed.