NGO Forum

Human rights groups gathered at an NGO Forum session to address the growing threats facing human rights defenders across Africa, from restrictive NGO laws to transnational repression. Organised by the International Service for Human Rights, the discussion focused on how governments are shrinking civic space and targeting activists even beyond their borders, and on measures needed to protect defenders at risk.

An NGO Forum statement argues that water justice cannot be achieved without equal participation of all affected communities in decision-making. The message, circulated by the International Service for Human Rights, frames inclusive involvement as the starting point for fair access to water, placing water within a human rights framework rather than purely a resource or infrastructure question.

The NGO Forum is calling for stronger protection of the rights of persons with albinism and disabilities across Africa as the climate crisis deepens. Advocates argue these groups face heightened risks from extreme weather, displacement and resource shortages, and are pushing governments and human rights bodies to address their specific vulnerabilities in climate policy.

A new report on civic space and cross-border challenges in Central Africa has been launched at an NGO Forum, presented by the International Service for Human Rights. The report is described as groundbreaking and examines the pressures facing civil society across the region. Human rights organisations are drawing attention to its findings on restrictions affecting activists operating across borders.