The NHRIs of the Maldives and Nepal are advancing the protection of human rights defenders (HRDs) through innovative approaches, using the Rights to Defend Rights (R2DR) tool.

With support from the European Union, the APF launched a small grant initiative to help NHRIs improve data monitoring and reporting on HRDs. The initiative focuses on strengthening information systems, documenting HRDs' contributions and challenges, and fostering better dialogue between NHRIs and stakeholders.

The National Human Rights Commission of Nepal (NHRC) and the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) have made progress in enhancing HRD protections through these grants.

Protecting human rights defenders in Nepal

With support from the small grant, Nepal's NHRC has bolstered HRD capacity and advocated for key policy changes. In January and February 2025, the NHRC conducted consultations across all seven provinces and a national session in Kathmandu to understand the challenges faced by HRDs and journalists, particularly those from marginalised communities.

The consultations revealed ongoing issues such as threats, harassment, and inadequate legal protections, with women HRDs and female journalists facing unique risks, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive policies.

Using these insights, the NHRC has pushed for amendments to the NHRC Act to enhance HRD safety and security and adapted the R2DR tool for the local context to help HRDs and journalists document violations and advocate for their rights.

Strengthening collaboration with civil society in the Maldives

In the Maldives, the small grants enabled the HRCM to strengthen engagement with civil society organisations (CSOs) and enhance HRD protection mechanisms. A key initiative was a training program focused on human rights and HRDs, alongside a strategic plan to foster more coordinated partnerships with CSOs.

The Commission also conducted regional outreach and held a hybrid R2DR toolkit workshop in November 2024, boosting HRD and CSO capacity in monitoring civic space and documenting violations.

Participants were trained on key human rights frameworks, including the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, and developed a collaborative data collection plan. These efforts have strengthened HRD protection, improved understanding of HRD rights, and deepened ties between the HRCM, CSOs, and stakeholders.

The APF’s ongoing commitment

The small grant initiative has provided NHRIs with the tools and resources to strengthen HRD protection efforts. As NHRIs continue to advance these activities, the APF remains dedicated to supporting their work and ensuring the protection and promotion of HRDs' rights.