Who We Are
Sudan Human Rights Defenders Coalition (SudanDefenders) envisions a Sudan where human rights are universally respected, justice is accessible, and human rights defenders (HRDs) operate in a safe and enabling environment. This 2026-2030 strategic plan outlines a robust framework to navigate the protracted crisis, build resilience among HRDs and affected communities, and relentlessly pursue accountability and justice. The plan prioritizes the immediate protection of HRDs, comprehensive documentation of violations, strategic advocacy at all levels, strengthening of local capacities and networks, and unwavering pursuit of accountability for grave human rights abuses. It recognizes the interconnectedness of human rights, humanitarian crises, and peacebuilding efforts in Sudan, offering a roadmap for sustained and impactful engagement in a profoundly challenging.
Our Vision
SudanDefenders envisions a Sudan where human rights and the rule of law are upheld, and where all individuals enjoy their fundamental rights within a framework of justice and equality in accordance with international standards. This vision aligns with the broader aspiration for HRDs to be recognized as essential actors who enjoy freedom and security in their legitimate activities.
Our Mission
SudanDefenders’s mission is to protect, promote, and advocate for human rights in Sudan without discrimination, in accordance with international standards. This includes a commitment to supporting human rights defenders (women and men) while working towards building a just society where rights are respected and the rule of law prevails. This mission is consistent with the core mandate of networks like DefendDefenders to enhance the safety and capacities of HRDs to enable them to effectively defend human rights.
Our Core Values
The core values underpinning SudanDefenders’s operations include a steadfast commitment to the universality of human rights, impartiality in its work, solidarity with HRDs facing threats, accountability for human rights violations, and the promotion of peaceful and democratic principles. These values are fundamental to guiding the network’s actions and informing its engagement with HRDs, governmental authorities, and other stakeholders.
Governance and Management Structure
SudanDefenders has positioned itself as a strategy-driven organization, with its structure, key positions, competencies, and delivery models closely aligned with its 2026-2030 strategic plan. At the helm of SudanDefenders is the General Assembly, the highest decision-making body, which is supported by the Board of Directors. The BoT provides strategic oversight and leadership to the Senior Executive Team.
The Senior Executive Team consists of the Executive Director, the Program Manager, the Finance and Administration Manager, and an Internal Auditor. These individuals are responsible for ensuring that SudanDefenders stays on course with its mission and strategic goals, while also managing the overall operations of the organization.
Below the Senior Executive Team, there is the Extended Management Team (EMT), which includes other key managers such as the Protection Manager, Capacity Building Manager, and the Research, Advocacy, and Communications Manager. The EMT plays a crucial role in implementing the organization’s programs and initiatives by translating strategy into actionable outcomes.
At the operational level, SudanDefenders structure is supported by the program and administrative staff, including officers responsible for Monitoring and Evaluation, Quality Assurance, and ICT. This implementing core works closely with the management teams to deliver on SudanDefenders goals and ensure the organization’s values.This structure ensures that SudanDefenders remain agile, responsive, and effective in promoting and protecting human rights across Sudan.