When return is possible
Preparation for return often begins even before arrival. Whether defenders are returning home or to a third country, programmes should have processes in place to support a safe return. Risk assessments and security plans can clarify what support will be available and address any potential risks or challenges defenders may face upon returning home. Universities can also support defenders to transition back to their home countries and communities after the programme ends by offering resettlement grants. Some programmes provide bridging funding, to cover one year’s accommodation or educational support or fees.
“In returning home, I will take the lead in a new human rights and climate justice organisation. I am excited to implement the ideas and knowledge I have gained – in indigenous education, transformative justice, collective care for human rights defenders, and the role universities can play in protecting human rights. ”
“Before joining the program I was feeling alone, under pressure after the detention of colleagues. The program helped me to rest, rebuild resilience, and learn from others. When back home I worked on human rights projects and advocated for activists in prison, now leading an emerging organisation working on human rights and mental health.”
Many defenders who have been on protection programmes testify to the value of the period of respite and capacity support for their own work, but there can also be many benefits for their organisations, networks and communities when defenders return home as the testimonies below demonstrate.
Case study
University of Burgos
The University of Burgos, in collaboration with Association Burgos with Colombia, has developed a strategy to facilitate the safe return of human rights defenders to Colombia following their participation in a temporary relocation Programme. Key to this strategy is the Selection Committee’s risk assessment, conducted in partnership with the Permanent Committee for Human Rights Defence (CPDH). This process ensures that only low risk cases are chosen, with CPDH establishing critical self-protection norms for participants.
One month prior to the planned return, the University will engage with Colombia’s National Protection Unit. This collaboration seeks to alert them to the specific risks faced by the defenders and to request preventive measures and security plans for each individual.
To further support the defenders, the Programme provides a comprehensive package, including legal assistance to address legal challenges, psychological support, and practical help for reintegration into their communities. Networking opportunities are also offered to facilitate ongoing support and collaboration, coupled with consistent communication from the University to address any emerging concerns.
The return to Colombia is a commitment of the individual to the Temporary Protection Programme for Human Rights Defenders – Burgos with Colombia and to their grassroots organisations, except in the scenarios where a safe return to Colombia is not feasible due to legal issues stemming from their human rights defence activities. In such instances, support will be sought through CEAR (Spanish Commission for Refugee Help) to proceed with an asylum claim.