Front Line Defenders
An Irish human rights organisation providing rapid grants for the security and protection of human rights defenders at risk.
About the fund
Front Line Defenders (the International Foundation for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders) is an international human rights organisation founded in Dublin in 2001 by Mary Lawlor. Its mission is to protect people who work non-violently for the rights of others and are put at risk because of it.
The organisation combines practical support with advocacy: it provides protection grants, trains defenders in digital and physical security, runs a 24/7 emergency line for defenders at risk and advocates at EU level through its Brussels office. Every year it presents the Front Line Defenders Award for human rights defenders working at risk.
For Ukrainian human rights defenders, activists and journalists facing persecution or threats, Front Line Defenders is one of the few sources of rapid security funding: support for office protection, secure communications, legal or medical assistance.
Focus areas
- Physical security of defenders and their organisations
- Digital and communication security
- Legal support for judicially harassed defenders
- Medical assistance after attacks
- Support for families of imprisoned defenders
- International advocacy and visibility for defenders at risk
Interesting facts
Founded in Dublin in 2001 by human rights defender Mary Lawlor.
The Protection Grants programme has run since 2001; grants go up to EUR 7,500.
The Front Line Defenders Award for Human Rights Defenders at Risk has been presented annually since 2005.
How to apply
Human rights defenders at risk and their organisations can apply, including Ukrainian NGOs and activists. Protection Grant applications (up to EUR 7,500) are accepted year-round via the secure online form at frontlinedefenders.org, including in Russian or English.
Need help with your application?
Call matching, consultation or turnkey application writing - from our team.
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