We can all do more to support and empower the courageous women and men who stand up for gender equality and mobilise the grassroots movements we need today, without fear of threats, intimidation or reprisals. Women human rights defenders are at the forefront of social movements that advocate for human rights, justice and equality. 　

Against the backdrop of attempts to roll-back women’s rights progress in many places today, their work is ever more important. At the same time, their vital role is frequently not recognised, and the obstacles they face as women or due to their work on gender equality is not reported. By standing up for women and for women human rights defenders we will be standing up for the rights of us all.