Charles Mvogo and Shimpe Poungou Zok were shot dead in Cameroon by a security officer, at the age of just 17 and 15. They were involved in a demonstration against power cuts at their school, illustrating the bravery of – but also the stark dangers faced by – all the human rights defenders who stood up to protect the rights of individuals in their communities in 2007.
Every day around the globe, human rights defenders press for change through peaceful and lawful means. They uncover violations, bring them under public scrutiny, and campaign for those responsible to be brought to justice.
Confronting those in power on issues like discrimination, torture, forced evictions, and unfair trials; they face harassment, torture and death. Many are forced underground to avoid state retribution. Others struggle to overcome state legislation that restricts their work.
In some regions, methods previously used to repress political dissent, have now been turned on those challenging social injustice and discrimination - such as human rights defenders – and the groups they represent.
It is only through the courage of human rights defenders, and their conviction to uphold the principle that all people are equal in dignity and rights, that human rights abuses can be addressed.