Defenders Protection

They tried to turn the internet off, but maybe you found a way. 🕯️💡 How did you beat the 2026 election blackout? Whether it was a VPN, a Tor bridge, or a "human mesh," your story is the evidence we need. ✅ 5 Mins | 🔒 100% Anonymous Tell the truth here: bit.ly/internetuganda… #KeepItOn #Uganda2026 #DigitalRights #InternetShutdown

We are proud to partner with the Center for Citizens Conserving Environment & Management (CECIC) in Kasese to deliver a hands-on digital security training and tools session. Environmental defenders are increasingly operating in complex and high-risk digital spaces. From data breaches to online surveillance and targeted attacks, the threats are real and growing. Through this engagement, we: -Equipped participants with practical digital security skills -Introduced tools to protect sensitive information -Shared strategies for safer communication and data handling -Strengthened awareness on emerging digital threats At Defenders Protection Initiative, we believe that protecting those who protect our environment must include protecting their digital spaces too. #DigitalSecurity #EnvironmentalDefenders #Kasese #CyberSafety #DefendTheDefenders #SecureTheFrontlines

As part of our continued commitment to strengthening digital safety for organizations, we had the privilege of engaging with Tooro Development Network. We shared key insights on digital security risks, practical protection strategies, and how teams can strengthen their day-to-day implementation to stay safer in an increasingly complex digital space. From safeguarding sensitive data to building internal accountability systems, the conversation focused on turning awareness into action. Because digital security isn’t just a tool, it’s a necessity for resilience. #DigitalSecurity #SafeSpaces #HumanRightsDefenders #CyberSafety #Resilience #DefendersProtection #Uganda

Are we fighting modern illicit finance with outdated tools? Our new article argues that AML/CTF’s heavy focus on traditional banking is increasingly misaligned with a world of fintech, instant payments, and crypto-enabled typologies. Article: bit.ly/41aZe8f by @JTumwesigye What changes do you think matter most: data, regulation, or technology? #AML #CTF #Compliance #FinTech #FinancialIntegrity

This Women's History Month, we’re leaning into a powerful truth: give to gain. When women support, uplift, and create space for each other, we don’t lose; we multiply impact. From mentorship to opportunities, every act of giving builds a stronger, more connected future for us all. #GiveToGain #WomensMonth #WomenSupportingWomen

Congratulations @sand_riza and thanks for the great work you are doing. We are proud of you.

At the East African Data Conference, we hosted a workshop on “When Data Harms Defenders: Rebuilding Accountability in East Africa’s Data Systems.” The session brought together civil society actors, researchers, and governance experts to reflect on the growing digital risks faced by activists and human rights defenders across the region. As conversations unfolded, participants highlighted the urgent need for stronger collaboration and preparedness, especially as several countries in the region move toward upcoming elections. A key recommendation emerging from the discussion was the formation of a regional consortium that can help civil society organizations coordinate, strengthen digital safety, and prepare for the risks that defenders may face during electoral periods. These conversations reaffirm the importance of building accountable data systems that protect, rather than expose those defending rights and democracy. #DataGovernance #DigitalRights #HumanRightsDefenders #EastAfrica #DataAccountability

The session, 'When Data Harms Defenders: Rebuilding Accountability in East Africa’s Data Systems' led by the Defenders Protection Initiative, explores how data systems, when weakly governed or insufficiently safeguarded, can expose human rights defenders and civic actors to significant harm. Data can also be weaponized through surveillance, profiling, and the misuse of personal information. Drawing on insights from the Toolkit for Activists and Defenders, the session examines practical approaches to rebuilding trust and accountability in data governance systems, particularly in contexts where civic space is shrinking and digital tools are increasingly used to monitor, intimidate, or silence dissent. As Noelyn Nassuuna reflects: “During the recently concluded elections in Uganda, many activists and human rights defenders were arrested and detained largely because of information that had been collected and shared about them. This raises a critical question: how safe is our data as human rights defenders, and how safely do we handle the data entrusted to us by the communities we work with?” @Open_Institute @ODPC_KE #EADataGov26 #DataProtectionKE

The power of women has always been in what we give to each other: support, courage, protection, and space to thrive. In doing so, we gain safer communities and stronger futures for all women. #GiveToGain #SafeCommunitiesForWomen #March #Womensmonth #HerSafeNetCampaign #HerSafeNet

In Uganda’s legal system, access to justice often depends heavily on who has the privilege and financial resources. In many cases, those with more money and influence are better positioned to navigate the legal process, hire strong representation, and ultimately shape the outcome of a case. This creates a reality where justice can feel unequal, and where financial power can sometimes determine whose voice is heard and whose case succeeds. @sand_riza, @HerInternet

In honor of International Women’s Day, we hosted a live audience podcast episode of #DefendersUnplugged on “Give to Gain: Safe Communities for Women.” Together with Yasmine Ahmed of @FemTechLaw , Ruth Atim @gender_uganda and Gloria, we explored how law, technology, and community solidarity can help build safer spaces for women. Because safe communities don’t happen by chance, they are built intentionally. #WomensDay2026 #DigitalSafety

Our policies and laws are moving far slower than the digital space itself. The legal framework remains largely stagnant while technology evolves rapidly. As a result, many of our institutions are not adequately equipped to respond. For example, courts still lack clear mechanisms for receiving and handling metadata and other forms of electronic evidence, and many police stations do not yet have proper systems in place to collect, preserve, or process digital evidence. In many ways, the law has not yet fully caught up to support the realities of digital investigations and online harm - Yasmin @FemTechLaw

We’re excited to be part of the East African Data Conference! Defenders Protection Initiative will be hosting a session on “When Data Harms Defenders: Rebuilding Accountability in East Africa’s Data Systems.” Join us as we explore how data governance, ethics, and accountability can better protect human rights defenders in the region. #EADC #DataJustice #DigitalRights #HumanRightsDefenders

Which safety habit do you practice most regularly? #WomensMonth

Congratulations @Kwidug1996. Thank you for the good work you have been doing over the years. Upwards and Onwards.

@Kwidug1996 Turns 30! Today, we celebrate three decades of empowering women, strengthening livelihoods, and advancing social justice in Kigezi. From our humble beginnings in 1996, our journey is one of courage, resilience, and transformation. #KWID30Years #FromStruggleToStrength #BreakingBarriersSince1996 #WomenEmpowerment #SocialJustice

How can you detect spear-phishing attacks before it’s too late? Join the first webinar of our new series, “Safe and Strong,” on March 10, which will cover new trends and share practical tips for civil society to raise its defenses. Register: accessnow.org/digital-securi…

Civil society actors carry the weight of community crises, shrinking civic space, funding pressures, and emotional labor every day. Yet mental well-being is often overlooked in policies, funding, and organizational culture. We must advocate for safer, healthier workplaces, with psychosocial support, realistic workloads, and a culture that values care as much as impact. Protect the people who protect communities. #MentalHealthMatters #CSOs #CivicSpace #Wellbeing