Programme

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Wednesday 17 June 2026

Opening

Theme: Voices of Courage 

Strong voices sharing powerful testimonials of resilience, and an immersive journey into human rights through art. 

  • Possible Speakers: Ronan Mc Dermott or David Mark
Wednesday 17 June 2026

Introduction and foundations

Theme: Understanding Human Rights & Human Rights Defenders (HRDs)  

Introduction to international and regional human rights systems and to how Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) can engage with these mechanisms for protection and accountability. Group exercises and case studies help participants map local human rights challenges, fostering peer learning and a better understanding of the environment in which HRDs operate

  • Possible Speakers: Ronan Mc Dermott or David Mark
Thursday 18 June 2026

Media Advocacy & Disinformation Resilience

Theme: Strategic Communication, Campaigning, and Digital Threats for Human Rights Defenders

Strategic communication and media use for effective advocacy, with an emphasis on storytelling and audience engagement. Focus on digital threats, including AI-driven deepfakes and disinformation campaigns. Development of skills to detect, respond to, and build resilience against online manipulation to protect advocacy efforts.

  • Possible speaker: Dalila Mujagic
Friday 19 June 2026

Digital and Physical Security

Theme: Risk Assessment, Protection Planning & Digital Security

Tools for assessing risks and creating tailored protection strategies. Analysis of threats, vulnerabilities, and capacity to plan personal and organisational security. Digital security, including encrypted communication, safe data practices, and threat modelling to mitigate online risks. 

  • Possible speaker: Thomas Coombes
Saturday 20 June 2026

Documentation & Evidence Collection

Theme: Monitoring, Documentation & Strategic Use of Evidence

How to apply international standards for documenting human rights, using ethical and trauma-informed methods. Technological tools are explored for collecting and preserving evidence. Documentation is strategically used for advocacy, legal processes, media, and storytelling. 

  • Possible speakers: Zala Cas, Johannes Heier from ODIHR “Starlight Stadium” project
Friday 19 June 2026

Wellbeing & Resilience

Theme: Mental Health & Holistic Protection

Critical thinking, reflection, and analysis can help us make sense of the reality we are living in. Theorising about, for and through human rights can have a healing power when used for imagining possible futures and places where life can be lived differently. Theory can act as a tool for self-protection and wellbeing. 

  • Possible speaker: Thomas Coombes
Saturday 20 June 2026

Human Rights in Play

Theme: Gamified Tools for Human Rights Practice

Professional application of practical tools, including online games for human rights defenders. Gamification is used to guide reflection on conducting research, investigations, and witness interviews.

  • Possible speakers: Zala Cas, Johannes Heier from ODIHR “Starlight Stadium” project
EVERYDAY - END OF DAY

CLOSING CIRCLE

Theme: Building trust, respect and connection

Each day concludes with a closing circle, offering a safe and supportive space for reflection and connection. Guided by a facilitator, participants can share personal stories and listen to fellow participants. The aim of the session is that participants leave feeling heard, respected, and connected.