THINK STOP SILENCE

Comprehensive Report: Protecting Human Rights Defenders and Global Security in an Interconnected World Executive Summary:  This report highlights the crucial role human rights defenders play in promoting human rights globally, despite facing numerous threats. Key challenges include attacks, repression, corporate complicity, extremism, and government restrictions. The report emphasizes the need for a comprehensive, collaborative approach from governments, civil society, and corporations to tackle these interconnected human rights and security issues globally. Case Examples: Nadia Murad, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, survived ISIS captivity and now advocates for Yazidi rights. Her case exemplifies the resilience and dedication of human rights defenders in the face of unimaginable adversity.  Berta Cáceres, an environmental activist, fought against the Agua Zarca Dam in Honduras before her assassination. Her story showcases the critical role of defenders in protecting the environme...

The Hidden Cost of War: How the Ukraine Conflict is Driving Up Food Prices The conflict in Ukraine has had a devastating impact on the country and its people, with significant humanitarian, economic, environmental and food security consequences. The conflict has led to a significant decrease in agricultural production in Ukraine, with many farmers unable to access their land or sell their products. This, combined with the war's disruption of supply chains and markets, has contributed to rising global food prices.  The increase in food prices has led to a decrease in food quality, with many people turning to cheaper and less nutritious options. The conflict has also highlighted the need for sustainable and resilient food systems that can withstand shocks and crises. Environmental Impact - The conflict has had significant environmental impacts including air and soil pollution from military activities, use of hazardous materials, etc.  - This environmental degradation exacerbates...

The Perils of Human Rights Activism: Confronting the Erosion of the Rule of Law Human rights defenders worldwide are facing alarming rates of collusion, torture, and intimidation, threatening the very fabric of the rule of law. The complicity of organized crime, legal representatives, private security, and even community members has created a complex web of accountability avoidance. This pervasive atmosphere of fear and intimidation silences voices, perpetuates impunity, and undermines trust in institutions. The manipulation of legal systems and exploitation of community ties by perpetrators perpetuates a culture of complicity and silence. Human rights defenders are subjected to psychological torture, cover-ups, and reprisals for seeking justice. The political motives behind these attacks are unacceptable, and the silence of authorities is deafening. The erosion of the rule of law has far-reaching consequences, including social unrest, corruption, and economic stagnation. It is essenti...

Submission to the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture Title: Identifying, Documenting, Investigating, and Prosecuting Crimes of Sexual Torture Committed During War and Armed Conflicts, and Rehabilitation for Victims and Survivors Submitted By: Dean Bordode,  Human Rights Defender, Canada  Submission Date:  April 27, 2024 ---  I. Introduction This report is submitted to the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture to provide insights into the challenges, strategies, and best practices associated with addressing sexual torture committed during war and armed conflicts. It aims to contribute to the upcoming report on the subject and support the Special Rapporteur's efforts to improve the identification, documentation, investigation, prosecution, and rehabilitation of victims and survivors of sexual torture.  II. Background on Torture and Its Prohibition Torture is recognized as a grave violation of human rights and is universally prohibited under international law. The UN Co...

Further Insights on Protecting Activists and National Security in Canada Given the ongoing challenges faced by activists in Canada and their impact on national security, there are several key areas that warrant further attention: 1. **Ongoing Monitoring and Adaptation:** It is crucial to continuously monitor emerging trends and new tactics used against activists. This includes staying informed on international developments that could impact domestic activism and security. 2. **Cross-Border Collaboration:** Strengthening collaboration and information sharing with international partners can help track and counter transnational repression and organized crime that may affect national security and activists in Canada. 3. **Legal Reforms and Protections:** Legal reforms are necessary to better protect activists, journalists, and whistleblowers from SLAPP lawsuits and unregulated private security practices. 4. **Awareness and Education:** Raising awareness and educating the public and law enf...

Mehrab and Johar's Struggle for Protection: Impact on Activists in Canada The concerns expressed in the statements shed light on the challenges faced by Mehrab and Johar while seeking protection due to their involvement in certain causes. Concerns surround Mehrab's case, particularly her possible support for the BLA, which has ties to extremism, raising questions about her safety and security. Johar, feeling depressed due to the lack of concrete action on Mehrab's case, discovered a kill list, further lowering his morale. His search for protection led him to various law enforcement agencies, including the University of Toronto campus police, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), but he did not receive satisfactory support or practical protection. This situation impacts activists in Canada who are not even part of the diaspora community but may be involved in certain activism, putting them at risk from domestic and internatio...

The Hidden War: Threats Against Activists, Journalists, and Whistleblowers Worldwide Around the world, individuals who challenge established powers, corruption, and wrongdoing face a complex and dangerous battle. Activists, journalists, and whistleblowers work tirelessly to expose unethical practices, human rights abuses, and other forms of injustice. However, their efforts often make them targets of powerful interests seeking to maintain control and silence dissent.  A Multifaceted Threat The threats faced by these individuals come from various sources and take many forms. Corrupt actors within law enforcement, government, or private organizations may use their positions to intimidate or harm those who oppose them. This includes false reports, surveillance, legal challenges, and even direct attacks. Organized crime, extremist groups, and corrupt officials often work together to suppress challenges to their authority. In addition, foreign governments may target activists and journa...

Navigating Post-Pandemic Challenges: Human Rights, Economy, and Social Justice Executive Summary: This report explores global challenges emerging in the wake of the pandemic, including shifts in urban environments, human rights issues, discrimination, advances in technology, and changes in healthcare and judicial integrity. Key focus areas include protecting human rights activists, combating corruption and organized crime, ensuring AI ethics, supporting whistleblowers and journalists, and promoting inclusivity and equality. International engagement, cooperation with the UN, and grassroots movements play a vital role in addressing these issues. 1. Pandemic and Economy: The pandemic has had profound effects on urban landscapes and economic dynamics. Work patterns have shifted, and downtown activity has declined. Adapting to new norms and supporting affected sectors is essential for economic recovery. [McKinsey Report on COVID-19's impact on urban life](https://www.mckinsey.com/featu...

Defending Rights in the Face of Oppression" Human rights defenders play a crucial role in advocating for the rights and freedoms of individuals around the world. However, their work can be challenging, especially in the face of opposition from far-right movements and authoritarian regimes often referred to as "strong men." These groups and leaders may attempt to suppress the activities of human rights defenders for a variety of reasons, including: 1. Challenging the Status Quo: Human rights defenders often challenge existing power structures and policies that may violate human rights. This can put them in direct opposition to far-right or authoritarian leaders who seek to maintain control. 2. Advocating for Marginalized Groups: Human rights defenders frequently advocate for the rights of marginalized groups, such as ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, or refugees. Far-right groups and authoritarian leaders may oppose these efforts as they often rely on nationalism or ...