Berlin Hub

for Human Rights defenders

bringing together organisations, institutions and individuals who are committed to supporting HRDs

In Berlin, 
a place where HRDs are historically protected and supported

About

initiative

Berlin has long been a place where people at risk—activists, journalists and advocates—can find a safe space to continue their work. At the same time, the city is home to a wide range of organisations already working with and for HRDs. Our work builds on this strong foundation, connecting these efforts into a more impactful community.

We are launching this initiative because the challenges faced by human rights defenders are growing globally and within Europe. With increasing transnational repression, many HRDs struggle to continue their work safely. The Berlin Hub aims to respond to these growing challenges by strengthening Berlin’s role as a true hub: a place where defenders are protected and supported in their work.

what

are our goals?

We believe Berlin should play a stronger role in protecting those who protect others. Through our work, we aim to:

01

Make access to Berlin easier for human rights defenders

We advocate for better policies and support systems that allow HRDs to come to Berlin for short- or long-term stays and to continue their work while here.

02

Build a strong, supportive community

Beyond formal programmes, we want to create a network of solidarity, connecting HRDs with civil society, institutions and local communities.

03

Strengthen long-term support and integration

The goal is not only temporary protection, but sustainable pathways that allow HRDs to remain active in their field and contribute both locally and globally.

04

Address new
and growing risks

Including transnational repression and restrictions on mobility, we want to ensure that defenders are safe beyond their home countries.

05

Amplify voices
and influence policy

By connecting HRDs directly with policymakers at Berlin, German and EU levels, we aim to turn lived experiences into meaningful change.

Who

can participate?

[01]

Human rights organisations and grassroots initiatives

working in Berlin, Germany and across Europe

[03]

Policymakers and public institutions

at city, national and European levels who are committed to advancing human rights

[05]

Donors
and partners

who want to support impactful initiatives
We have a wide target audience including a diverse community of actors who care about human rights and want to take action together.

[02]

Foundations 
and support programmes

that provide funding, fellowships or protection for HRDs

[04]

Universities and research institutions

working on human rights, migration and related fields
At its core, the Hub for Human Rights Defenders is about connection and creating a space where these actors can work together more effectively, and where human rights defenders themselves are at the centre

Who

can participate?

We have a wide target audience including a diverse community of actors who care about human rights and want to take action together.

[01]

Human rights organisations and grassroots initiatives

working in Berlin, Germany and across Europe

[02]

Foundations and support programmes

that provide funding, fellowships or protection for HRDs

[03]

Policymakers and public institutions

at city, national and European levels who are committed to advancing human rights

[04]

Universities
and research institutions

working on human rights, migration and related fields

[05]

Donors and partners

who want to support impactful initiatives
At its core, the Hub for Human Rights Defenders is about connection and creating a space where these actors can work together more effectively, and where human rights defenders themselves are at the centre

Want to join?

We are always open for collaborations

Whether you’re working directly with human rights defenders, supporting them through research, funding or advocacy, get in touch with us at:

Berlin Hub EVENTS

13 November 2026
9:30-11am
Taz Kantine, Friedrichstr. 21, 10969 Berlin
Safe Haven Berlin? Supporting Human Rights Defenders in Exile

For many human rights defenders (HRDs) and human rights organisations threatened by war and persecution, Germany, and Berlin in particular, has long been a safe haven where they can continue their work and regain their strength. The city’s history offers hope and inspiration, and its many diaspora communities can provide a sense of home.

Today, however, that promise is under strain. As the political debate increasingly focuses on restricting migration, it is becoming harder for human rights defenders to come to Berlin and build a life here. Humanitarian concerns have moved down the federal government’s agenda, with significant cuts to humanitarian aid and reduced admission programmes for people at risk. Bureaucratic hurdles remain high, and even those granted asylum often see no long-term prospect of continuing their human rights work.

As part of our Berlin Hub for Human Rights Defenders programme, join us to discuss the following questions with both parliamentarians and civil society: How can civil society help HRDs in exile find safety and stability in Berlin, especially at a time when political support is shrinking? And how does our society benefit when we listen to them and support their integration?

Jian Omar, Member of the Berlin House of Representatives for the Green Party, will be joining us for the discussion with human rights defenders in exile. The event has been supported by Brot für die Welt. Make sure to register.

Recent

blog posts

Join us

We are always open for collaborations. Whether you’re working directly with human rights defenders, supporting them through research, funding or advocacy, get in touch with us.

Want to become a member of the Civil Society Forum?

Just drop us a message stating the organisation you represent and a brief description of your motivation. We’ll follow up with the application form and other details and gladly answer any questions you may have.