Creating Safe Pathways for Those Who Defend Universal Human Rights
The EU Directive on Human Rights Defenders is a proposed EU law to create special residence and support pathways for human rights defenders from outside Europe who face threats in their home countries.
Why Is This Needed?
Defenders often face:
- threats, harassment, violence
- difficulties getting regular visas
- lost/missing documentation
- barriers to banking, housing
- financial hardship
Who Is Qualified?
Human Rights Defenders include:
- Activists, journalists, lawyers
- Community organizers
- Environmental defenders
- Those documenting abuses
- Anyone peacefully promoting human rights
LET THEM MOVE
Why the EU Must Prioritize Human Rights Defenders’ Mobility
As authoritarian regimes tighten their grip worldwide, human rights defenders are being silenced, imprisoned, or forced into hiding. Yet many remain trapped by EU bureaucracy. Evgeny Shtorn argues that enabling their mobility is a strategic necessity for Europe’s security and global influence. So, what happens if the EU does nothing?
How Would It Work?
1. Certification Letter from trusted organization
(UN, OSCE, CoE, major NGOs, universities)
2. Application
Apply from outside EU or extend/regularize existing stay
3. Residence Permit
For work, study, advocacy, training, or rest/recovery
KEY SUPPORT
- Provided Housing assistance and accommodation
- Healthcare access including mental health
- Financial support for living expenses
- Workspace – free or subsidized offices
- Banking access without barriers
- Legal assistance as needed
- Networking opportunities with other defenders
RIGHTS & EQUAL TREATMENT
- Same employment rights as EU nationals
- Access to education and training
- Recognition of qualifications (even without all documents)
- Social security benefits
- Freedom to join unions/associations
- Support for establishing NGOs
Family Reunification
Families can stay together:
- Joint or later application permitted
- No minimum residence period required
- Fast-tracked processing
- Integration requirements only after permit granted
What Makes This Different?
Greater flexibility:
- No proof of significant financial resources required
- Missing documents not automatic disqualification
- No formal job offer needed
Read the Draft of the Directive
Support an EU Directive on the Protection and Mobility of Human Rights Defenders
Human rights defenders at risk need safe and predictable ways to enter, stay, and continue their work in Europe. Existing protection pathways remain fragmented and inconsistent. A new EU Directive would help create a coherent framework for protection, mobility, and participation across the European Union.
This is a collective initiative shaped by organisations and supporters committed to the protection of human rights defenders. By signing on, your organisation joins a wider call for meaningful EU action.
Read the OPEN STATEMENT
Sign on as NGO to support the statement: