DRC LAUNCHES NATIONAL REGISTRY TO PROTECT HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS
A new chapter in the protection of human rights defenders began on Thursday, September 25, as the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) officially launched the operation to identify and register activists working across the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The initiative, unveiled in Kinshasa, aims to formalize and safeguard the work of those who risk their lives defending fundamental freedoms. On its first day alone, more than forty human rights defenders were registered — a symbolic yet significant start to what the Commission says will be a continuous nationwide operation extending to all provinces in the coming months.
According to CNDH President Paul Nsapu, the goal of the registry is simple: to create an official directory of human rights defenders and to ensure that their status is recognized and protected under the law. “This process does not in any way undermine the independence of human rights defenders,” he said. “On the contrary, it provides them with essential guarantees of protection in the free exercise of their work.”
The operation is grounded in the law of June 15, 2023, on the responsibility and protection of human rights defenders, and in the ministerial decree of November 25, 2024, which established the procedures for its implementation. For many activists, these legal provisions represent long-awaited progress after years of intimidation, harassment, and violence.
Reactions among defenders were largely positive. Several activists gathered at the CNDH headquarters expressed optimism that the registration process would mark the beginning of a safer environment for their work. “We are very happy and relieved to see the start of this activity today,” said one participant. “Human rights defenders who have been threatened, harassed, or even killed will soon have legal protection. We urge all defenders to support this initiative instead of rejecting it.”
Others noted that the registry would also help distinguish legitimate defenders from those who misuse the title for political or personal gain. “By identifying and documenting genuine activists, the CNDH can better focus its resources on those who truly work for justice and human dignity,” said another advocate.
However, not all have embraced the initiative. Some independent groups have voiced concerns that the registration could be used by state authorities to monitor or control the activities of civil society. The CNDH has responded by insisting that participation is voluntary and that confidentiality safeguards are built into the process.
Despite the skepticism, Thursday’s launch marks the culmination of years of advocacy. For the CNDH and the many defenders who have endured arrests, abductions, and threats, this step is more than administrative — it is a recognition of their courage and sacrifice.
“The effectiveness of this operation,” said Nsapu, “is the result and reward of a long struggle led by human rights defenders. They have been waiting for this moment since the law was passed two years ago.”
As the registration expands across the country, activists hope it will translate into real protection on the ground — in a nation where defending truth has often meant risking everything.