11 January, 2021
Security and safety during elections

Elections are a challenging period in many African countries. In the past ten years, many African nations have experienced pre- and post-election violence which resulted in the loss of lives, properties, and stability.

Human rights defenders (HRDs) involved in electoral processes as observers, civic educators, and monitors have in the past been targeted. They are at high risk for potential physical assaults and attacks, office break-ins, arrests and detentions, and targeted cyber-attacks. To ensure their safety, security, and wellbeing, DefendDefenders continuously engages with HRDs to enhance their capacity in security management. For reference, we developed these guidelines to strengthen HRDs’ safety, security, and wellbeing during election periods. The guidelines apply to both HRDs working in organisations and individual HRDs.