The COVID-19 pandemic does not have to be a crisis for human rights. In the context of widespread adoption of emergency laws and other extraordinary measures to respond to the pandemic, many governments have demonstrated that it is possible to safeguard rights while effectively countering the virus. This briefer shares positive practices that governments should follow in responding to COVID-19, along with selected examples of these practices.

Since the coronavirus pandemic began, the United States has seen numerous protests, albeit at a relatively small scale. However, an adequate set of rules to protect both the freedom of peaceful assembly and public health have yet to be developed.

A statement by UN Special Rapporteurs regarding India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act 2019 (the amended Act) and to the cuпent counter-terrorism legislation, the 1967 Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (the Act). The statement addresses specific concerns in relation to their compatibility with India’s obligations under international human rights law and in relation to pertinent international standards of counter-terrorism legislation. 

The Fundraising Principles report provides a global overview of current trends in fundraising regulation and self-regulation. Additionally, it offers principles and recommendations addressing 7 key areas based on international and regional standards and country practices. The report aims to support advocacy efforts to create an enabling environment for fundraising around the globe.

Driven by a desire to protect the health and wellbeing of their citizens and residents, many governments have taken extraordinary steps to respond to the coronavirus pandemic. Some governments have incorporated surveillance technology into their efforts to halt the spread of COVID-19. While the use of all the tools at hand is understandable, emergencies – even COVID-19 – do not obviate states’ obligations to consider the broader societal and human rights effects of these emergency measures.

On November 15, 2019, the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (the Act), which repeals and replaces the Public Order and Security Act of 2002 [Chapter 11:17 (POSA) went into effect. The Act governs gatherings, processions, and public demonstrations and thus impacts the freedoms of assembly and expression in Zimbabwe. This Practical Guide highlights key steps and considerations for organizers (or “conveners”) of assemblies.

Made up of more than 40 countries, Asia defies easy categorization. On the one hand, many countries are home to vibrant civil society sectors. On the other hand, in too many countries, state regulatory controls on civil society are becoming increasingly restrictive.

UNSR Clément Voule issued ten key principles to guide states’ response to a public health crisis. A checklist and survey accompany these principles to assess the implementation by government authorities and other key actors.

Face masks are in the news. The CDC now recommends that Americans wear face masks to reduce transmission of COVID-19, and some localities are mandating wearing them for certain activities, such as entering a grocery store. Yet, at least 18 states and Washington DC have laws that could be used to penalize those who wear face masks.

PUBLISHED: APRIL 2020 This April 2020 joint declaration by the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Opinion and Expression, the Organization for Security and Co-operation […]