A coalition of over 350 civil society organizations under the #UNmute initiative is calling for real inclusion in the UN Summit of the Future negotiations. They express concerns over the current engagement mechanisms for civil society at the UN, highlighting the importance of civil society in global policy-making and the increasing restrictions they face. The coalition, which includes organizations like Civicus, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch, emphasizes the need for transparent and inclusive processes to ensure all voices are represented. They call for immediate action to strengthen civil society's role in global governance, including the establishment of inclusive platforms and designated seats for civil society representatives.

Over 350 civil society organizations, part of the #UNmute initiative, are calling for real inclusion in the UN Summit of the Future negotiations. They highlight the essential role of civil society in global governance and criticize the UN for limiting their participation. The collective, including organizations like Civicus, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch, demands immediate action to democratize representation and ensure all voices are heard. Key figures emphasize the need for transparent and inclusive processes to restore trust and promote global cooperation.

A coalition of over 350 civil society organizations under the #UNmute initiative is calling for greater inclusion in the UN's Summit of the Future negotiations. They express concerns over the current engagement mechanisms, highlighting the importance of civil society in global policy-making and the increasing restrictions they face. The coalition demands immediate action to establish inclusive platforms, designated seats for civil society representatives, and a comprehensive review of civil society's engagement in UN processes to ensure all voices are equally represented.

Human rights defenders face significant threats and repression globally, with 401 deaths reported in 2022 across 26 countries. In Bolivia, violations of freedoms and attacks on defenders are rampant, with state-owned YPFB's oil exploration threatening the Tariquía Flora and Fauna National Reserve. Campaigns like ReImagina La Defensa de Derechos and #AlternativeNarratives aim to raise awareness and amplify the voices of defenders. In Central and West Africa, civil society actors face repression, with initiatives supported by organizations like Forus and the French Development Agency. The Danish Institute for Human Rights has launched a tool to monitor the environment for defenders, urging global action to protect their crucial work.

The article highlights the challenges faced by human rights defenders globally, with a focus on Bolivia, where state and oil company interests threaten environmental and community rights. It discusses the efforts of UNITAS and other organizations to document and raise awareness of these issues, emphasizing the need for global support and protection for human rights defenders. The Danish Institute for Human Rights has developed a tool to monitor the environment for human rights defenders, while campaigns in Central and West Africa aim to protect civic space. The article underscores the ongoing struggle and risks faced by human rights advocates worldwide.

Human rights defenders face significant challenges worldwide, with increasing threats, attacks, and repression. In 2022, 401 human rights defenders were killed across 26 countries. Despite the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, threats persist globally. In Bolivia, defenders face violations of freedoms, with state alignment with oil companies threatening natural resources. Campaigns like Reimagina la Defensa de Derechos and #AlternativeNarratives aim to raise awareness and support defenders. Organizations like Front Line Defenders, Repongac, and the Instituto Danés de Derechos Humanos work to protect civic space and human rights defenders. The article highlights the ongoing struggle and resilience of human rights defenders in the face of adversity.

Over 350 civil society organizations, as part of the #UNmute initiative, have expressed concerns about their limited engagement in UN processes, particularly with the upcoming Summit of the Future. They emphasize the historical role of civil society in advocacy and policy-making, highlighting recent restrictions and challenges they face at both national and global levels. The organizations call for immediate action to ensure inclusivity and participation in the Summit of the Future, including transparent processes and equal representation. Key figures at the United Nations have been urged to support the unique role of civil society, especially marginalized and underrepresented communities.