Marianne Initiative for Human Rights Defenders. It aims to provide better support for human rights defenders engaged in various types of fights: civil and political rights; environmental rights; women’s rights, children’s rights and LGBTQIA+ people.
The hosting programme in France includes a tailored programme and provides an accommodation near Paris, the payment of a monthly grant to cover daily needs for a period of 6 months (January – July 2024).
The program includes contact with the main actors involved in the field of human rights (State, elected officials, local authorities, non-governmental organizations, independent judicial and administrative authorities, representatives of international organizations), as well as support for the development of their activist project, aimed at strengthening the effectiveness of their action. It also offers the opportunity to network with other HR defenders from all the continents.
Recipients complete a comprehensive program consisting of:
- Training in negotiation, leadership, advocacy, physical and digital security, project management, etc. ;
- Courses from the School of International Affairs of Sciences Po Paris and French language;
- Contact with French or international personalities involved in human rights and development issues;
- Meetings with inspiring personalities and potential partner organizations (NGOs, foundations, institutions, etc.);
- Conferences and cultural activities ;
- Individual interviews to support the activist project;
- Visits to international institutions and organizations;
- Exchanges with members of the program’s alumni network.
Around 15 candidates are selected every year. You will find attached a presentation of the project and some information regarding the eligibility of candidates and the application process. Applications can be filed in English, French or Spanish until July 6 here: https://www.initiativemarianne.fr/en/2023/06/08/lappel-a-candidatures-pour-integrer-la-promotion-2024-est-ouvert/
