Part C Facilitating “relocation and respite” for HRDs facing risks and reprisals 1 What is “Relocation and Respite�� “Relocation and respite” refers to the practice of a human rights defender spending time away from home for protection and recuperation, either by relocating within their country or moving to another country. Relocation may be organized independently by individuals or through established initiatives - the UN Special Rapporteur on HRDs has recognized these initiatives as good practice3. Relocation and respite can provide several benefits for HRDs, including: • Immediate Safety: For defenders facing imminent danger, relocation within their country or abroad can be necessary for their immediate protection: providing temporary refuge, allowing them to regroup, assess their situation, and plan their next steps. • Rest and recharge: The constant pressure, threats, and exposure to human rights abuses can take a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of defenders. Relocation and respite initiatives can provide an opportunity for HRDs to take a rest and recuperate. • Continuing to work: Relocating can allow HRDs to continue their human rights work from a safer location, ensuring that their knowledge and advocacy efforts are not entirely stifled. During relocation, HRDs may be able to build a wider network to support their national and international advocacy. The following are some contexts where relocation and respite may be particularly relevant: 2 • Political repression: In countries with authoritarian regimes, governments may actively suppress dissent and target human rights defenders, making it unsafe for them to continue their work within the country. • Armed Conflict: Human rights defenders operating in conflict zones are at heightened risk due to the volatile and dangerous nature of these environments. • Defending Marginalized Groups: Defenders who focus on the rights of marginalized or vulnerable populations, such as women, LGBTQ people, ethnic or religious minorities, environmental, indigenous and land rights, may face additional risks as they challenge deeply ingrained prejudices and power structures. Relocation and respite programmes In recent years, there has been a growth in both the number and size of initiatives supporting HRDs’ relocation and respite. These programs may target specific groups of defenders, particular regions, or specific HRD activities. Some also include provisions for family members to relocate with HRDs. Additionally, more initiatives are now interconnected, collaborating to advance the practice collectively4. 3. UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders, Report to the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders (A/HRC/31/55) (1 February 2016) para 72. 4. The Barcelona Guidelines on Wellbeing and Temporary International Relocation of Human Rights Defenders at Risk, para 3. Relocation and Respite Toolkit 17