HRC61 - EU Statement - Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders
United Nations Human Rights Council
61st Session
Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, Ms Mary Lawlor
3 March 2026
EU Statement
Mr President,
The EU thanks the Special Rapporteur for her report and tireless work over the past six years. We reiterate our strong support for her mandate.
Special Rapporteur, your report highlights the work undertaken by human rights defenders, often at great personal risk, in an increasingly challenging global context. The EU shares your concern that the space to defend human rights is becoming more restricted, including through the rising use of “foreign agents” laws and other restrictive legislation, global funding cuts, as well as acts of transnational repression, discrimination, violence and harassment.
The EU commends the resilience and continued work of human rights defenders, including those in exile, to make the aspirations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights a reality. As outlined in the EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy (2020-2027), engagement with and support to human rights defenders is a top priority and cross-cutting element of the EU’s external action. Through our network of Delegations across the world, we regularly engage with HRDs and uphold the legitimacy of their work, including by observing trials, issuing statements and advocating for their immediate and unconditional release when they are arbitrarily detained. We also provide support to many HRDs and their organisations and we engage with the business sector on upholding human rights due diligence.
The EU Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders anchor the EU’s firm commitment to safeguarding those who courageously champion dignity and justice, offering a clear, principled commitment to shield their essential work from threats and persecution.
Madame Special Rapporteur,
How can Member States champion human rights defenders, turning the tide against stigma and spotlighting their vital role in societies?
Thank you.