We strive to ensure that everyone can work free from oppression and fear
The Gulf Centre for Human Rights (GCHR) is an independent, non-profit NGO that provides support and protection to human rights defenders (HRDs) in order to promote human rights, including but not limited to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.
By donating to GCHR, you are helping us protect and support Human Rights Defenders across the MENA Region.
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Protection
To provide protection for human rights defenders, including journalists and Internet activists, and enhance their effectiveness online and offline.
Awareness
To raise awareness locally, regionally and internationally about issues pertaining to HRDs at risk.
Advocacy
To enable a safer environment for human rights defenders at risk, through advocacy at regional fora and via international mechanisms.
Networking
To facilitate networking and exchanges between human rights defenders, partner organisations and social movements.
Facilitators of vibrant civic spaces in the Gulf region
Founded in 2011 by human rights defenders in the MENA Region, GCHR is based in Lebanon and documents the environment for human rights defenders in the Gulf region and neighbouring countries.
LEARN MORE ABOUT USProviding tools & resources to those who need them most
Get the tools and resources to manage threats and much needed support for your cyber, physical, and psychological well-being
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Recent Actions
NGOs call for immediate release of Saudi Wikipedian Osama Khalid, whose 14-year sentence was upheld
We, the undersigned organisations, express deep concern over the continued arbitrary detention of the Saudi Wikipedian Osama Khalid, whose 14-year prison sentence was
13/04/2026 Learn More
Call for freedom for environmental activist and artist Mohammed Jawad Hameed
On 07 April 2026, the General Directorate of Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science summoned prominent environmental activist and artist Mohammed Jawad Hameed.
9/04/2026 Take Action
Please watch the Alternative Human Rights Expo 4 to support women human rights defenders
Update: Watch the event video in English on YouTube here! The Gulf Centre for Human rights (GCHR), with the support of 27 partners held the online event,
1/12/2025 Take Action
Abdulrahman Al-Khalidi faces another 6-month extension of detention by authorities in Bulgaria
The Gulf Centre for Human Rights (GCHR) continues to urge the Bulgarian authorities to enforce the multiple court orders to release Saudi human rights defender
15/10/2025 Take ActionRecent News & Publications
Sad loss of dear colleague, writer Nabhan Al-Hanshi
The Gulf Centre for Human Rights (GCHR) mourns with deep sorrow the passing of Nabhan Al-Hanshi, 45, a prominent Omani writer and human rights defender, well-known in
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Authorities must protect the right to peaceful assembly for all citizens
On 17 April 2026, a peaceful sit-in was held in the Governorate Square in Damascus, Syria which was called for by a number of citizens, including a group of civil
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