The implementation of restrictive measures and other directives aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19 significantly impacted the operational landscape for human rights defenders. Beyond their everyday challenges, the pandemic’s management by various African states contributed to a further contraction of civic and democratic space, already structurally constrained in the region. In such challenging circumstances, particularly during crises, ensuring that human rights advocates can access and continue their crucial work and advocacy efforts is paramount.

This study’s core objective is to deliver an in-depth analysis of how COVID-19’s restrictive measures influenced the rights and freedoms of human rights defenders in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Niger, and Sierra Leone. It meticulously documents the innovative strategies civil society organizations devised and implemented to sustain their operations despite coercive actions. Furthermore, it highlights the positive contributions and efforts made by states and other stakeholders that facilitated these continued efforts. This publication also presents a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at enhancing the protection of human rights advocates and safeguarding civic space during periods of crisis.

Ultimately, this research serves as a powerful advocacy tool, targeting national, regional, and international human rights mechanisms. Its purpose is to combat the improper application of coercive measures during crises and to consistently ensure the robust protection of human rights defenders in all circumstances.