Statement by ZimRights on International Human Rights Defenders Day
Honoring the Courage of Human Rights Defenders in Zimbabwe
9 December 2024, Harare, Zimbabwe
On this International Human Rights Defenders Day, the Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZimRights) honors its members and all human rights defenders across Zimbabwe and the world who tirelessly champion justice, equality, and dignity within their communities.
Celebrated annually on December 9th, this day commemorates the adoption of the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders in 1998 and underscores the vital role of those who advocate for human rights.
In Zimbabwe, human rights defenders include individuals organizing peaceful actions, defending vulnerable groups in court, whistleblowing, and documenting violations—often at great personal risk. The year 2024 has experienced serious human rights violations which could be equated to an election year. Our members have worked tirelessly throughout the country to respond to these violations using various tools and resources. One such tool that has been effective in holding leaders to account is the People’s Human Rights Manifesto.
The People’s Human Rights Manifesto, crafted through the collective voices of communities, has emerged as a powerful tool to hold leaders accountable. Since its launch in 2023, the Manifesto has provided a framework for advancing a culture of human rights in all aspects of public leadership. It reminds leaders of their obligations and empowers communities to demand justice and equality. Encouragingly, some elected leaders have publicly committed to the principles of the Manifesto, signaling a step toward accountability and better governance.
Despite these efforts, the past year has brought significant challenges. Many defenders faced harassment, arbitrary arrests, and violence for their work. Yet, their courage and resilience continue to inspire. ZimRights salutes its members and all defenders who empower communities, demand accountability, and advocate for social justice under increasingly hostile conditions.
We also recognize grassroots activists, legal practitioners, journalists, and community leaders whose contributions advance freedoms of expression, association, and assembly while pushing for reforms that protect the most vulnerable.
Call to Action
On this day, ZimRights calls on:
- The Government of Zimbabwe to uphold its constitutional and international human rights obligations, ensuring a safe environment for defenders to work without fear of persecution.
Zimbabwean citizens to support and protect human rights defenders, acknowledging their critical role in safeguarding freedoms and addressing injustices. - The international community to monitor and amplify the voices of defenders in Zimbabwe while holding the government accountable for any violations.
Recommendations
- Enact and implement a National Human Rights Defenders Bill to legally recognize and protect defenders in alignment with the UN Declaration.
- Strengthen access to justice mechanisms by providing adequate resources to the judiciary and legal aid services.
- Raise awareness through nationwide campaigns about the importance of human rights and the sacrifices made by defenders.
As we commemorate this day, let us reaffirm our commitment to the People’s Human Rights Manifesto and its vision of a Zimbabwe where governance is rooted in justice, equality, and respect for human dignity.
ZimRights
Campaigners for Human Rights