This analysis explains what Human Rights Defenders are and the role they play in Zimbabwe.
As the constitution of the Zimbabwe does not cover the promotion of protection of human rights defenders, international obligations are reviewed in the analysis. Particular emphasis is put on the “Declaration on Human Rights Defenders” that was passed at the 35th ordinary session of the African Commission on Humans and Peoples’ Rights. Finally, a number of recommendations are made to improve the situation of human rights defenders in Zimbabwe, namely that the government of Zimbabwe should comply with law that urges it to protect everyone in the exercise of their rights and that it furthermore should establish an enabling environment for human rights defenders, in which they are encouraged to do their work.