In many countries around the world, human rights defenders operate in contexts characterised by repression, intimidation, threats and restrictions on civic space. The work of those who promote and protect fundamental rights can pose risks to their personal safety and psychological wellbeing, making it necessary to provide temporary spaces for protection, rest and capacity-building.
In response to these needs, the Shelter City programme was launched in 2012, thanks to Justice & Peace Netherlands, with the aim of supporting human rights defenders at risk through an international network of sanctuary cities. In October 2023, Un Ponte Per joined the Shelter City network, taking on the operational management of the programme in Italy and launching an initial pilot project in Rome in collaboration with Rome’s 8th Municipal District.
Shelter City Rome is aimed at human rights defenders at risk from various parts of the world, with a particular focus, where possible, on the South-West Asia and North Africa (SWANA) region. The programme involves drawing up an individual support plan, tailored to the needs of the person being hosted. During their stay, participants are guaranteed a safe environment, opportunities for rest and recovery, and dedicated support for their personal wellbeing. This is complemented by training, mentoring and professional development activities, through which participants can strengthen the knowledge and skills relevant to their work, including in the areas of safety and protection.
Another key element of Shelter City Rome is the creation of networks and alliances. The programme facilitates meetings between hosted defenders and civil society organisations, universities, public institutions, diplomatic actors, movements and professional networks at local, national and international levels. Through institutional meetings, workshops, lectures, public debates, interviews and cultural initiatives, participants can also share, with their consent and whilst respecting their safety needs, the situations in their home countries and raise awareness amongst a wider audience about the issues they are addressing. At the same time, the programme promotes the recognition of temporary relocation as a practical means of protection, raising awareness of the restrictions on civic space around the world and countering narratives that delegitimise the work of human rights defenders.
