Civil and political rights have suffered a decade-long decline globally, and violations of human rights remain all too common, particularly in authoritarian countries.

Freedom House supports frontline activists in their efforts to defend fundamental rights, including to document abuses, advocate for justice, end impunity, and fortify the self-protection of human rights defenders. We also provide emergency assistance to human rights defenders who come under threat and work with activists to broaden public support for upholding human rights.

One last point I have come to realise that activists are really only people who have decided to act on their freedom to choose.