Summary

In the present report, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, Michel Forst, discusses the persisting impunity for human rights violations committed against human rights defenders and the challenges that exist in combating it. He outlines a regulatory framework on the right to access to justice, including due diligence in investigations. He also elaborates on the de facto and legal barriers to access to justice. The Special Rapporteur offers essential guidelines for ensuring due diligence in the investigation of such violations. Subsequently, good practices implemented by States and civil society are described.

The report contains recommendations addressed to all relevant parties on how to combat impunity effectively.