HLPC Inspires a New Generation of Human Rights Defenders Through Training on International Mechanisms

In the fight for human rights, particularly for marginalised key populations such as people living with HIV, sex workers, LGBTIQ+, and people living with disability, understanding the mechanisms for reporting violations is crucial. Effective advocacy relies on identifying injustices and on knowing how to navigate the intricate landscape of regional and international human rights bodies. 

The ability to report these violations properly can amplify the voices of those who are often silenced and ensure that their concerns reach the appropriate treaty bodies, such as the United Nations Human Rights Council or the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. To strengthen the capacity of LGBTIQ+ human rights defenders in Zimbabwe, the Health Law and Policy Consortium (HLPC) held a training in Harare, equipping activists with the tools to engage with regional and international human rights systems. 

The training brought together human rights defenders from across the country, representing a diverse range of civil society organisations working on LGBTIQ+ rights and inclusion. Participants were trained on how to document violations, engage United Nations mechanisms, and prepare shadow reports to regional and global human rights bodies. Understanding the interplay between national and international law enabled them to leverage all available avenues for justice.

Speaking at the training, Dorcas Chitiyo, HLPC’s Programmes Coordinator, underscored the importance of equipping grassroots advocates with legal and advocacy tools that extend beyond national borders.“Many human rights violations against LGBTIQ+ persons go unchallenged because there is limited access to justice at the national level,” said Chitiyo. “This training ensures that Human Rights Defenders know how to take their voices to regional platforms like the African Commission and global ones like the UN Human Rights Council.”

The training was facilitated by leading human rights law experts, Dr. David Office and Dr. Dzimbabwe Chibwa, who guided participants through the intricacies of international human rights treaties and reporting frameworks. Dr. Office kicked off the session with an overview of the distinctions between national and international legal systems, highlighting the critical role of treaties such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in shaping universal protections. “Understanding how international law interacts with domestic systems empowers activists to use all available legal avenues,” said Dr. Office. “It is not just about knowing the treaties, it is about knowing how to use them effectively,” he added.

Participants welcomed the training as both empowering and timely, particularly as LGBTIQ+ communities in Zimbabwe continue to face discrimination, criminalisation, and restricted access to justice. Thakalani Moyo, an activist with a Harare-based human rights group, said the workshop had reshaped her perspective on advocacy work. “This workshop has been transformative,” she said. “I now understand the power of international mechanisms in amplifying our struggles. I feel more equipped to represent my community at a higher level.”

Participants in their groups work on a practical example of reporting human rights violations to a UN body during the training on 11 June 2025.

Another participant, Tinashe Chirwa, said learning about the process of shadow reporting was especially enlightening. “Shadow reports are more than just documents; they are a way to tell the truth about what’s happening in our communities. I now know how to structure and submit one, and I plan to do so before the next regional review,” said Chirwa.

One of the standout moments of the workshop was the paralegal certification for LGBTIQ+ defenders. This bridged the gap in access to legal services for vulnerable individuals. Blessing Ndlovu, a young activist from Manicaland, described the training as a “game-changer.” “Becoming a certified paralegal means I can now offer real support to people in my community,” she said. “It is more than advocacy, but legal empowerment.”

HLPC, which continues to lead efforts to advance reproductive and social justice through law and policy, said, “We are investing in people who are already doing the work, what they need is access, support, and tools,” according to Chitiyo. “That’s what HLPC exists to do.” With growing momentum and a strengthened network of defenders, Zimbabwe’s LGBTIQ+ activists are now better equipped to make their case not just at home but before the world.

A participant receiving a certificate for completing the Human Rights Bodies 

Reporting training organised by the HLPC,12 June 2025, Harare.

The completion of the training is a step forward for LGBTIQ+ human rights defenders in Zimbabwe. Equipping Human Rights Defenders with knowledge and practical skills to engage with international human rights mechanisms, HLPC  fostered a resilient and empowered advocacy landscape. 

The participants attested to the enhancement of their confidence and a commitment to documenting and addressing rights violations, their ability to serve their communities and amplifying their voices on global platforms. With the momentum gained from this initiative, these defenders are now better positioned to challenge discrimination and promote justice for all, heralding a brighter future for LGBTIQ+ rights in Zimbabwe and beyond.