The McCain Institute at Arizona State University is deeply committed to upholding freedom, democracy and universal human rights.  Reflecting this commitment, the McCain Institute has launched a program to provide transitional assistance to human rights defenders who have been forced to flee their homes or to work underground due to harassment, intimidation or violent threats.

Democratic norms and human rights are under attack around the world as established democracies look inward, and authoritarian regimes take advantage of a world seemingly less concerned about promoting democracy, human rights and the rule of law.  These dramatic political changes portray a world that is drifting toward a period of nationalism and illiberalism.

Such trends put the lives of human rights defenders, as well as their friends and families, at grave risk. Many have to flee their homes.  Through the Human Rights Defenders program, the McCain Institute provides funding, logistical assistance and referrals to human rights defenders in distress, helping them to:

• Settle into a safe environment
• Receive training involving extra security precautions, networking, and career development if unable to return home any time soon
• Find sustainable employment as a means to continue their human rights work throughout the time they are unable to return to their home countries

Each time a human rights defender or journalist is forced to abandon his or her work, a voice is silenced, and a repressive regime wins. The Institute’s goal is to make sure these critical voices remain loud and strong. The Institute provides them the opportunity to remain in the arena to defend human rights for the long-term. The assistance has a tangible impact on lives and advances the causes of liberty and justice.

For more information, contact mcchrd@proton.me or: