About us
About Us
The Sudanese Network of Human Rights Defenders was established in August 2019 by Dora from the organization The Future for Enlightenment and Development, with the support of Frontline and Defend Defender, to promote Safety and protection of human rights defenders, monitoring human rights violations, and building their capacities In monitoring, reporting, physical and digital security, and providing emergency protection to male and female defenders in Frontline.
Our vision & mission
Why We Exist and What We Aim to Achieve
our vision
A world where human rights defenders are protected and respected by all.
our mission
To promote and protect human rights through advocacy, education, and support
History and Development of the Network
History
The Sudanese Civil Rights Defenders Network was founded to support human rights defenders working under dangerous and restrictive conditions. Beginning as a small grassroots initiative in Darfur, the network was created to protect activists facing threats, harassment, and violence due to their work in documenting violations and supporting vulnerable communities.
Over the years, the network expanded as defenders across Sudan joined together to exchange information, report abuses, and coordinate humanitarian and protection efforts. Through collaboration with local and international partners, the network strengthened its resources, improved safety mechanisms, and built a structure capable of supporting defenders in multiple regions.
Development
After the outbreak of the April 15 war, the network entered one of the most important phases of its development. Its work expanded beyond Darfur into all Sudanese states as the need for protection and coordination increased dramatically. With support from partner organizations, the network helped relocate defenders to safe areas, facilitated communication between states, and established representatives across Sudan—ensuring gender-balanced and youth-inclusive participation.
Today, the network continues to grow as a united platform for human rights defenders seeking safety, accountability, and justice for victims of conflict and oppression. Its mission remains rooted in resilience, solidarity, and the belief that every defender deserves protection and support.
Transformation After the April 15 War
After the outbreak of war on April 15, the network expanded its scope of work to include all of Sudan, following the success it had achieved in Darfur. Donor organizations supported the screening processes and helped defenders relocate to safer areas.
The network created representatives in every state to coordinate between network members, the main coordinator, and service providers — taking into account gender and age representation.
Challenges
Since the rise of the National Congress government in 1989, human rights defenders have faced numerous challenges, especially in the Blue Nile, South Kordofan, and Darfur regions. These challenges have included killings, enforced disappearance, arrest, torture, sexual violence, and other violations that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The situation for defenders in Darfur has worsened significantly since the recent outbreak of war. Many have been killed, dozens arrested, and many more forced to flee to neighboring countries such as Chad, South Sudan, and Uganda.
Future Vision
🌍Expanding the Scope of Work
The Sudanese Network of Human Rights Defenders aims to broaden its operational reach and strengthen its capacity to face emerging challenges. The network continues to support human rights defenders across Sudan — especially in conflict-affected regions.
👩🦰Empowering Women
As part of its future strategy, the network is committed to enhancing women’s roles and capabilities, reinforcing their contribution to protecting and promoting human rights in Sudan.
Network Structure
Principal Coordinator:
Leads coordination between regional representatives and network members, ensuring smooth communication and unified strategic direction.
Regional Representatives:
Each state has a designated representative responsible for coordinating between local network members and the Principal Coordinator.
Gender & Age Representation:
The network structure ensures fair gender and age representation, promoting inclusiveness, equal participation, and protection for all members.
Organizational Structure
The network consists of regional coordinators. The council of coordinators represents the supreme authority.
