Humanists International at the UN: rights defenders deserve protection, not suspicion

Humanist column. Humanists International used its slot at the UN Human Rights Council this week to say something uncomfortable. Rights defenders are under organised attack, and the attackers often claim moral cover.

Mythili Mishra, the group’s advocacy and research officer, spoke on 28 September at the council’s 63rd session. She described repression of human rights defenders by transnational anti-rights movements. These movements include both states and non-state actors.

Who is targeted

The statement said defenders working on gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and LGBTI+ rights are hit hardest. That matches what many of us see. Those who defend the most contested rights draw the fiercest pushback.

The tactics Humanists International named

The statement listed several. Opponents argue from traditional family structures. They cite culture and religious tradition. They misuse counterterrorism laws. They pass foreign agent laws. Each one dresses repression as law or custom.

It also raised a concern close to humanist hearts. Protections for religious freedom, it said, are being weaponised against gender and sexual minorities. That undermines bodily autonomy, comprehensive sexuality education and freedom of expression.

Why a humanist should care

Religious freedom is an individual right. It protects the person who believes, the person who doubts and the person who changes their mind. It was never meant to be a licence to restrict others. When it is stretched that far, everyone’s freedom narrows, including that of believers.

The statement called this period one of significant backlash against human rights. It also warned of shrinking civil society space at the UN itself. I think that deserves attention.

Humanism has always asked a simple question: does this policy reduce suffering and respect autonomy? Apply that test and the answer here is clear. Defenders should work without fear. For related reading, see our piece on humanist weddings and the law in England and Wales. The full statement is on the Humanists International website.

Fact basis: Humanists International statement to the UN Human Rights Council, 63rd session, 28 September 2026. This is an opinion column; the views are the author’s.