Research for Human Rights
Building an enabling safe environment for human rights
The Enabling Environment National Assessment
HURISA has been a leading force in strengthening civil society organisations (CSOs) and human rights defenders (HRDs) in Africa. Since 2015, we’ve implemented the Enabling Environment National Assessment (EENA) program, this program assesses the legal and policy environment for CSOs and HRDs in South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
Research with Impact
The EENA program goes beyond simply gathering data. We use its findings to create impactful reports. These reports are launched at public sessions of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR). Some of the countries included in the EENA research are Botswana, DRC, Lesotho, Malawi, South Africa, and Zambia. By bringing these reports to the ACHPR, HURISA elevates the voices of local CSOs and shines a light on the challenges they face.
Exposing barriers in laws and policy affecting human rights
Advocating for Change in South Africa
Empowering CSOs and HRDs is critical for a thriving democracy. We play a vital role in building a strong voice equipped for monitoring human rights abuses, advocating for change, and holding governments accountable. However, our research exposes how some legislative frameworks and administrative practices in Africa restrict this essential work.
These restrictions can take various forms, hindering our ability to:
Monitor human rights abuses
CSOs and HRDs play a crucial role in documenting human rights violations. However, restrictive laws and practices can make it difficult for them to gather information and hold governments accountable.
Advocate for change
CSOs and HRDs are often at the forefront of advocating for human rights reforms. Research by HURISA reveals limitations placed on their ability to advocate for transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
Committed to exposing these challenges, we also document cases of reprisals targeting various human rights defenders in the SADC region.
These reprisals can include:
- Threats and intimidation
- Extra judicial killings
- Violence and harassment
- Arbitrary arrests and detentions
These acts of intimidation are aimed at silencing those who speak out against injustice.
Our research advocates for justice and accountability
HURISA’s research goes beyond exposing human rights violations; it strengthens our commitment for justice and accountability. Here’s how:
Investigations into Violence
Our research on assassinations, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances of CSO activists and HRDs is used to call for investigations into these violations.
Exposing Unjust Laws
Research highlighting repressive laws that are used to diminish freedom of association, assembly and expression efforts to enhance protection of civil space and human rights defenders.
Amplifying the Voices of Victims and Activists
By bringing these issues to the attention of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR), we give a voice to those who have been silenced. The ACHPR has the power to hold governments accountable for human rights violations.
Researching specific issues
Our research agenda also delves into specific human rights issues, providing focused analysis and advocacy opportunities.
Here are two key areas of our research:
1
Freedom of Association and Assembly in SADC
HURISA conducted a comprehensive study on the implementation of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR) Guidelines on Freedom of Association and Assembly. This research examined how these guidelines are being upheld (or not) in 10 SADC countries.
2
Gender-Based Violence in Southern Africa
Recognising the horrific impact of gender-based violence (GBV), we embarked on research focused on a survivor-centered and gender-sensitive approach to justice. Our research aims to identify the specific needs and challenges faced by women in Southern Africa who are victims of GBV.
Collaboration is Key
It’s important to note that HURISA doesn’t conduct research in isolation. The Scorecard Research mentioned earlier exemplifies our collaborative approach. By working with the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR), HURISA can leverage our combined expertise for even greater impact.
Learn more about specific research projects on our resources page.
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