About HuMENA

HuMENA, in a glimps

At its core, HuMENA for Human Rights and Civic Engagement embodies a deep-rooted commitment to human rights. Established as an autonomous entity for advocacy and activism, HuMENA strives to emerge as a pivotal civic force, addressing the constraints on civic freedoms in the MENA region and harnessing the power of both local and diasporic communities as catalysts for change in both local and international stages. Officially founded in 2020 in Brussels, HuMENA operates as a non-profit, non-partisan global human rights organization with active engagements across the MENA region.

HuMENA for Human Rights and Civic Engagement is dedicated to advancing the rights and empowerment of communities across the MENA region through strategic activism, advocacy, and collaboration. Our approach transcends borders, resonating with a diverse array of stakeholders, including civil society, activists, citizens, and democratic governments.

Narrowed labels do not bind us; we embrace an expansive vision that uplifts all voices within our organization. This means affirming the lives of activists, human rights defenders, women, LGBTQI+ individuals, disabled individuals, people of color, ethnic and religious minorities, diaspora activists, exiled activists, refugees, undocumented individuals, those with records, women, and all individuals across the gender spectrum who have been marginalized within liberation movements.

In our pursuit of justice and equity, we combat acts of discrimination, creating spaces for engagement, learning, development, imagination, innovation, and joy. Just as we advocate for the rights of marginalized communities within the MENA region, we recognize the importance of inclusivity and solidarity on a global scale.

At HuMENA, we believe that by centering the experiences and voices of those often sidelined, we forge a path toward a more just and equitable future for all. Our commitment to strategic activism knows no borders as we work tirelessly to bring about positive change and ensure no community is left behind.

Vision

A rights-based and inclusive MENA region where civic space is protected, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association are upheld, and human rights defenders and activists can operate freely and safely.

Mission

HuMENA advances human rights, democracy, and social justice across MENA by protecting civic space and empowering activists, HRDs, and marginalized communities—including those in exile and the diaspora. Through advocacy, activism, and collaboration, we champion fundamental freedoms, resilience, and inclusive, sustainable change.

Values