Our Reach
Our Impact
Since our establishment in 2012 and official registration in 2019, the South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network (SSHRDN) has grown into a powerful movement linking grassroots activists to regional and international human rights mechanisms. Here's what we've achieved together.
60+
Member Orgs
Across South Sudan
10
States Covered
Nationwide presence
25+
HRDs Trained
In 2024 workshops
9
Awards 2024
Recognizing excellence
Key Achievements
2024
Youth Platform
Launched Youth Cluster providing digital assistance, training, and resources to young HRDs speaking up against violations.
2024
Strategic Plan
Developed comprehensive strategic plan document in partnership with Nonviolent Peaceforce and network clusters.
2023
Tactical Tools
Hosted "Claiming Spaces" workshop in Juba, strengthening leadership and interventions for SSHRDN members.
Training & Capacity Building
Wau
Art Therapy Clinic
Empowered 25 human rights defenders using artistic therapy for emotional expression, trauma healing, and psychosocial support.
Kuajok
Protection Mainstreaming
Joint training with UJOSS (Union of Journalists) equipping journalists and HRDs with protection mechanisms, digital safety, and advocacy.
Juba
Digital & Youth Training
Ongoing capacity building on digital advocacy tools, online security, lobbying, and leadership for young human rights defenders.
Celebrating HRDs
Our annual awards recognize outstanding human rights defenders across South Sudan.
James Ninrew
Veteran HRD of the Year
2024
Juma Tikol Marino
Next Generation Youth HRD
2024
Stephen Robo Musa
Outstanding HRD of the Year
2025
Ter Manyang Gatwech
Greater Upper Nile Region
2023
Advocacy & Protection
Cybercrime Bill Advocacy
SSHRDN has been at the forefront of demanding strong legal protections for privacy and free expression, warning that without safeguards, the law could be used to silence journalists and HRDs.
Protecting Women Online
Called on the transitional government to safeguard women and girls from digital attacks designed to intimidate and silence them, demanding urgent action to create safer online environments.
Inclusive Peace Talks
Urged the African Union mediation team to ensure inclusive consultations with all peace parties, stressing that excluding critical voices undermines the peace process.
Anti-Corruption Call
Called for decisive action from leadership and public institutions to tackle systemic corruption, stating it actively obstructs development, peace, and human rights.
Our Member Organizations Across South Sudan
Central Equatoria
Eastern Equatoria
Western Equatoria
Jonglei
Lakes
Unity
Upper Nile
Northern Bahr el Ghazal
Western Bahr el Ghazal
Warrap
* SSHRDN has a membership of 60+ organizations spanning all ten states of South Sudan, with many more looking to join.
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Your support helps us protect human rights defenders and strengthen civil society across South Sudan.
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