Side Event at the 60th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council

The Istanbul Association of Women and Women’s Organizations (İKADDER), within the framework of its consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), hosted a side event in Geneva during the 60th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council entitled “Protection of the Rights of Human Rights Defenders and Civilians.”

Organized by İKADDER in cooperation with the Earth Lawyers Association (Yeryüzü Avukatları Derneği), the event was held between 10:00–11:00 at Room 7 of the United Nations Office at Geneva. The session comprehensively addressed the increasing reprisals against human rights defenders in recent years, the shrinking civic space, and the role of international law’s protective mechanisms.

Security of Human Rights Defenders on the Agenda

In the opening remarks, İKADDER Chairperson Neyir Akbulut drew attention to the pressure, intimidation, and violence faced by human rights defenders and emphasized the need for international institutions to develop more effective sanction mechanisms in response to violations.

The speech also expressed concern regarding disproportionate use of force and underlined the importance of ensuring accountability at the international level for the protection of the rule of law. It was stressed that protecting individuals at risk constitutes not only a national responsibility but also an international one.

International Participation and Joint Assessments

Representatives of civil society organizations from different countries took the floor during the meeting and shared their recommendations on the protection of human rights defenders. Discussions highlighted the protection of civilians, strengthening protection mechanisms, and enhancing international cooperation. The session also included assessments related to the Sumud Flotilla.

The event provided an important platform for joint policy dialogue concerning the safety of human rights defenders, accountability mechanisms, and the strengthening of the rule of law.

The Only Side Event from Türkiye

Recorded in the official United Nations session records, the meeting was the only side event organized by a civil society organization from Türkiye during the relevant session period. In this respect, it represented a notable example of the participation of Turkish civil society in international human rights mechanisms.

İKADDER announced that it will continue its efforts at both national and international levels to increase awareness regarding the protection of human rights defenders and civilians, strengthen protection mechanisms, and promote accountability.

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