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From the 17th to the 21st of November, 37 of Protection International‘s international staff members gathered in Brussels, Belgium, as part of our Global Seminar – five days of learning, solidarity, political clarity, and renewed commitment to human rights defenders (HRDs). Colleagues from 7 teams across 4 continents and 15 nationalities brought with them the stories, struggles and hope of the communities we stand beside, and the rich knowledge and experience from civil society and HRDs around the world.

In the two years since our last Global Seminar, the world has changed—sharply and dangerously—fuelled by rising authoritarianism, digital repression, and resurgent hate. All place HRDs at even greater risk, making it urgent and necessary for us to gather in person to strengthen our courage, strategy, and shared mission. As an organisation who fights for the protection of HRDs and for the right to defend human rights, we know our mission remains crucial

Throughout the week, we listened and learned from each other. We brought new stories of wins and struggles. We reflected on how to adapt our mission to the needs on the ground. We strategised to plan for the future. And we made space for joy, humour, and connection—because care is political, and solidarity is the backbone of long-term resistance. 

“This week reminded me that the spirit of HRDs and the commitment of our staff remain our greatest strength”

Times are incredibly tough. The global shift against human rights is making the world a more dangerous place, but we can and will challenge this. 

“In difficult times you become ready. We cannot freeze!”

We will mobilise the power of positive narratives, of story-telling, to keep building, supporting and sharing the work we are doing with and for HRDs. 

We will reach out to more HRDs, growing partnerships with diverse groups from across the globe. 

We will use new technologies for protection, and make sure that HRDs can protect themselves in this rapidly evolving digital age. We will build a stronger and more sustainable financial model grounded in collaboration, equity, and our deep commitment to the grassroots.

Together we affirmed that PI’s mission is more needed than ever, and that by working together we can challenge the new wave of global injustice. We thrive when solidarity thrives, when we stand firm with HRDs and advocate for the right to defend human rights. We left Brussels with assurance of our mission: to stand shoulder to shoulder with HRDs everywhere, to defend their right to defend human rights, and to face down global injustice with the power of solidarity.

“We stand firm with human rights defenders. We’ve set priorities and we’ll stick to them. We’re going to face down the challenges with courage, focus and smarter collaboration.”