We are guided by the experience that human rights, peace and development are mutually dependent: poverty increases human rights violations and violent conflicts, and these simultaneously increase poverty.
Particularly at a time when racism and violence are on the rise, when populism and nationalism are gaining ground and multilateral human rights protection is questioned, we must be resolute in our defence of human rights and peace. We do this together with civil society partners in the Global South. Their scope of action is also shrinking and their work is becoming ever more dangerous. Human rights defenders are defamed, criminalised, threatened and even murdered. However, sustainable development is only possible if everyone can participate in a society without risk, including disadvantaged and poor people. We support people and organisations to get involved and to protect themselves in the best possible way.
Fighting violence and furthering reconciliation
The risk of human rights violations and violence is significantly higher in fragile states that do not fulfil their obligations in the areas of security, rule of law and basic social services. The power and influence of terrorist or armed groups is also increasing in our partner countries. Our partner organisations often have to seek dialogue with all actors involved in the conflict in order to survive and work in an environment characterised by violence. We support other partner organisations to shape peace and reconciliation processes.
Protection for refugees
Human rights violations, fragile statehood, poverty, the climate crisis and violence are just some of the causes of flight and migration. Together with our partners, we face a double challenge. Firstly, to influence the causes of conflict beyond urgently needed humanitarian aid and ensure that people can exercise their human rights even in protracted refugee situations. Secondly, we need to advocate for humane asylum and migration policies in the host countries along the refugee routes and in Europe.
