HuMENA for Human Rights and Civic Engagement invites contributors to share their perspectives and insights on the protection of civic space and the advancement of fundamental freedoms across the MENA region. This call offers writers, activists, researchers, and advocates an opportunity to contribute to critical discussions shaping the future of human rights and social justice.
About HuMENA
HuMENA is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing human rights and civic engagement in the MENA region. With offices in Brussels and Beirut, HuMENA operates through regional teams to protect civic space, advocate for fundamental freedoms, and support human rights defenders on the frontlines of advocacy and activism.
We seek contributions exploring the intersections of activism, civic space, and human rights. Topics should address the unique challenges faced in the MENA region while highlighting innovative approaches and impactful stories.
Suggested Topics (but are not limited to):
- Civic Space and Freedom of Peaceful Assembly: Analyzing the importance of civic space and peaceful assembly in protecting fundamental freedoms and fostering active engagement.
- Democracy and Justice Activism: Examining efforts to promote democratic institutions and strengthen accountability and justice mechanisms.
- Activism in Exile: Documenting the experiences, strategies, and challenges of activists working from exile to effect change in their home countries.
- Gender and Sexuality Activism: Advocacy for gender equality and LGBTQI+ rights, focusing on the challenges, progress, and innovative approaches driving change.
- Social Movements: Exploring the evolution, strategies, and impact of grassroots mobilization in addressing key societal challenges.
- Artivism: Investigating how art intersects with activism to inspire and drive transformative social change across the region.
- Digital Activism and Online Spaces: Exploring the role of technology in shaping civic engagement, highlighting both opportunities and the threats posed by surveillance and repression.
- Civil Rights Activism: Highlighting efforts to protect fundamental freedoms such as freedom of expression, association, and privacy amidst increasing repression.
Contribution Details
- Language: Submissions are welcome in Arabic or English.
- Word Count: Final blog posts should range between 1,700 to 2,500 words.
How to Submit
To participate, please send an idea pitch of no more than 300 words summarizing your proposed topic and perspective. Along with your pitch, include examples of your previous writing (published or unpublished).
Email your pitch and writing samples to FoPA@humena.org with the subject line: “Call for Contributors – [Your Topic].”
Honorarium: Selected contributors will receive an honorarium in recognition of their work.
Deadline for Submission:
Pitches must be sent by January 30, 2025.
Why Contribute?
Selected blogs will be featured on HuMENA’s platform (humena.org/blogs), advancing advocacy and fostering critical dialogue to protect civic space and empower HRDs across the region.
