Human Rights Defenders from edX

Human rights defenders are people who have the courage to stand up against injustice.

In this online course, you will follow their stories, learn how they mitigate risks and explore the creative ways they use to speak up. You will find out what drives them to take action, witness what defenders can achieve and discover how you can use your voice to defend your rights and those of others.

Together we'll explore:

The diverse situations of human rights defenders
Threats human rights defenders, their friends and families, are facing
Strategies to mitigate risks and ways to take action

You will be challenged to take part in discussions with other course participants, reflect on human rights issues you care about, and create a practical toolkit that serves as a personal guide to defending human rights.

This is Amnesty International's third Massive Open Online Course. Be prepared for active learning, connecting with course participants from across the world and to become part of a global community dedicated to taking action to defend human rights everywhere.

This course is also available in Spanish, French, and Arabic.

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May be appropriate for learners interested in learning about the human rights field

Taught by instructors who are recognized for their work in human rights

This course is offered by Amnesty International, a well-known human rights organization

Provides tools and strategies for human rights advocacy

Designed to help learners develop a practical understanding of human rights issues

May be useful for learners who want to take action to defend human rights

Reviews summary

Amnesty international: action on human rights

In this course by Amnesty International, students learn from real-life human rights defenders about their stories and how they create change. Students collaborate with each other and create a personal guide to protecting human rights.

This course is interactive and engaging.

"...you create your own toolkit for action, you discuss a lot with others and share experience..."

The course is inspiring and leads students to take action.

"...it leads you to take an action and really be active not just have this information..."

Career center

Learners who complete Human Rights Defenders will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Human Rights Educator

Human rights educators teach about human rights principles and laws. They may work with schools, NGOs, or other organizations, developing and delivering educational materials and programs. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and educational practices. You'll learn how to develop and deliver human rights education programs, and how to engage and empower learners.

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Human Rights Officer

Human Rights Officers are responsible for monitoring and reporting on human rights violations, advocating for the protection and promotion of human rights, and providing technical assistance to governments and civil society organizations. Amnesty International's Human Rights Defenders course will provide you with a solid grounding in human rights principles, international law, and best practices for human rights monitoring and advocacy. You'll learn about the different mechanisms for protecting human rights, including national and international legal frameworks, and gain practical skills in documentation, reporting, and advocacy.

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Community Organizer

Community organizers work to bring people together to address issues in their communities. They may work with neighborhood groups, faith-based organizations, or other community groups, organizing events, campaigns, and projects. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and community organizing practices. You'll learn how to build relationships, develop and implement community-based campaigns, and advocate for change.

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Journalist

Journalists investigate, report on, and analyze current events and issues. They play a vital role in informing the public and holding those in power accountable. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and ethical journalism practices. You'll learn how to investigate and report on human rights violations, and how to use your voice to advocate for justice.

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International Development Specialist

International development specialists work to improve the lives of people in developing countries. They may work with governments, NGOs, or international organizations, providing technical assistance, managing projects, and advocating for policy changes. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and international development practices. You'll learn how to design and implement development projects, advocate for human rights, and contribute to sustainable development.

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Social Worker

Social workers provide support and services to individuals and families facing challenges such as poverty, mental illness, and addiction. They work in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and community organizations. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and the social work profession. You'll learn how to work with vulnerable populations and advocate for their rights.

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Human Rights Lawyer

Human rights lawyers are advocates for justice who dedicate their careers to defending the rights of individuals and groups against violations by governments, corporations, and other powerful entities. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide a deep understanding of the legal framework and advocacy strategies used by human rights lawyers. It will also shed light on the challenges and risks faced by HRDs, highlighting the courage and resilience required in this field. By completing this course, you will gain valuable insights into the legal protections available to defend human rights, as well as the strategies and tactics employed by human rights lawyers in their fight for justice.

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Activist

Activists work to bring about social and political change on issues they care about. They may work with organizations or independently, using a variety of strategies, including lobbying, organizing, and direct action. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and the strategies and tactics used by activists. You'll learn how to develop and implement campaigns, build alliances, and advocate for change.

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Humanitarian Aid Worker

Humanitarian aid workers provide life-saving assistance to people affected by natural disasters, armed conflict, or other emergencies. They work in challenging and often dangerous environments, providing food, water, shelter, medical care, and other essential services. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a deep understanding of the principles of humanitarian aid, the ethical considerations involved, and the challenges faced by humanitarian workers. You'll also gain practical skills in disaster response, needs assessment, and program management.

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Peacebuilder

Peacebuilders work to prevent and resolve conflict and build sustainable peace. They may work with governments, NGOs, or international organizations, using a variety of strategies, including mediation, negotiation, and community development. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and peacebuilding practices. You'll learn how to analyze conflict, develop and implement peacebuilding strategies, and work with communities to build sustainable peace.

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Teacher

Teachers facilitate learning and help students develop their knowledge, skills, and values. They work in schools, colleges, and universities. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and pedagogical practices. You'll learn how to incorporate human rights education into your teaching and inspire your students to become active advocates for justice.

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Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research, analyze, and evaluate public policies and programs to inform decision-making. They work in various sectors, including government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and the policymaking process. You will learn analytical methods and tools to evaluate policies and programs and develop recommendations to promote and protect human rights.

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Researcher

Researchers conduct scientific studies to contribute to knowledge in a specific field. They may work in academia, government, or the private sector. This course in Human Rights Defenders will provide you with a strong foundation in human rights research methodologies, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation. You'll learn how to design and conduct human rights research projects and contribute to the advancement of human rights knowledge.

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Nonprofit Manager

Nonprofit managers oversee the operations and finances of nonprofit organizations. They work to ensure that the organization's mission is achieved and that it operates in a financially sustainable manner. This course will provide you with a deep understanding of human rights principles and nonprofit management practices. You'll learn how to develop and implement strategic plans, manage staff and volunteers, and raise funds.

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Diplomat

Diplomats represent their countries in foreign countries and negotiate with foreign governments. They work to build relationships, promote cooperation, and resolve conflicts. This course in Human Rights Defenders may be useful for diplomats who wish to specialize in human rights issues or who work in countries where human rights are a major concern. You'll learn about international human rights law and the role of diplomacy in promoting and protecting human rights.

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Human Rights Defenders

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Amnesty international: action on human rights

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