Civic space in MENA is under continuous attack, and now, due to sudden and severe funding cuts, HuMENA is being forced to scale down critical support for human rights defenders, activists, and social movements across the region. These cuts come at a time when repression is escalating, authoritarian governments are tightening their grip, and independent voices are being silenced at an alarming and unprecedented rate.
For years, HuMENA has been a lifeline for those on the frontlines of human rights struggles—offering emergency aid, digital security, legal protection, advocacy, capacity-building, and direct assistance to grassroots movements. Our work has ensured that activists, including those in exile, have the resources, protection, and support needed to continue their fight for justice and freedom. We have documented human rights violations, exposed oppressive policies, and mobilized international solidarity to challenge authoritarianism and defend fundamental rights.
Now, our ability to continue this mission is at serious risk. These funding cuts are not just budgetary constraints—they have immediate and devastating consequences for the activists and communities we support. Without sufficient resources, we can no longer respond swiftly to urgent threats, provide essential protection, or advocate effectively for civic space. This is not just about HuMENA—it is about the entire human rights movement in MENA facing a systematic attack.
“At a time when repression in MENA is escalating and civic space is shrinking, we are being forced to scale down due to a funding crisis. The activists, human rights defenders, and social movements we support are facing greater risks than ever, but without urgent intervention, we may not be able to stand with them as we always have. These cuts don’t just impact our organization—they threaten the entire civic space and weaken resistance to authoritarianism.”
— Mostafa Fouad, Executive Director of HuMENA
A Threefold Crisis:
Drastic loss of funding has disrupted our ability to sustain vital programs, putting activists at greater risk.
Escalating repression means that the need for support is increasing, but resources are shrinking.
Growing demand for protection, legal aid, and advocacy is overwhelming, as human rights defenders face mounting threats.
Civic space in MENA is being dismantled. While authoritarian regimes escalate their attacks on human rights, our ability to fight back is being crippled. These threats do not pause, and neither should our work—but without urgent support, we may be forced to further scale down, leaving countless activists and movements vulnerable and alone.
We refuse to be silenced as civic space is being erased. We call on our partners, allies, and the international community to act now. The cost of inaction is too high, and the time to act is running out.
How You Can Help:
Raise Awareness – Share this message and amplify the urgent threats to civic space in MENA.
Partner with Us – If you or your organization can support our work, reach out to explore collaboration.
Advocate for Change – Push for stronger international support for human rights defenders in MENA.
For support, partnership opportunities, or any inquiries, please contact us at [email protected].
Stand with us.
Defend those who fight for justice.
