The UK Government has issued new guiding principles on supporting human rights defenders, confirming a structured approach to protection and assistance. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office published the policy paper on 17 December 2025, and a government news story highlighted the principles on 9 January 2026. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guiding-principles-on-supporting-human-rights-defenders))
The principles explain that support will include diplomatic action to raise visibility and provide protection, practical steps to reduce risks, collaboration with governments, civil society and multilateral bodies, and efforts to ensure defenders can work without threats or reprisals. The announcement underlines that many defenders face intimidation, violence and criminalisation. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-strengthens-its-commitment-to-protecting-human-rights-defenders))
Operational standards for officials are set out. The document commits the UK to a ‘do no harm’ approach, to avoid transactional relationships, to engage widely with women, LGBT+ people and marginalised groups, and to consider individual wellbeing. It also affirms that defenders are defined by what they do rather than who they are, reflecting the UN declaration. ([assets.publishing.service.gov.uk](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/69429aa58f4636fa2c547d8a/31.70_FCDO_HRD_report.pdf))
For day‑to‑day diplomacy, posts may issue case‑specific public statements or letters, hold meetings including at senior level, recognise defenders through awards, and attend trials or detention visits where appropriate. All actions should be discussed with the individual concerned and be subject to risk assessment before proceeding. ([assets.publishing.service.gov.uk](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/69429aa58f4636fa2c547d8a/31.70_FCDO_HRD_report.pdf))
When an individual is at immediate risk, missions are advised to verify information and, with consent, work with local, regional and international protection networks. Longer‑term, the guidance highlights flexible funding to build resilience. It also supports safe, meaningful participation of defenders in UK and multilateral meetings, including help with associated costs. ([assets.publishing.service.gov.uk](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/69429aa58f4636fa2c547d8a/31.70_FCDO_HRD_report.pdf))
The FCDO positions the principles within a wider support package that includes detailed guidance and expertise for British embassies and high commissions. The policy paper also references UK funding for the Lifeline Embattled CSO Assistance Fund and the UK’s role in reviving the mechanism. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guiding-principles-on-supporting-human-rights-defenders))
Accessibility is addressed through versions in French, Russian, Simplified Chinese and Spanish. The publication opens with a message from Chris Elmore MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, reiterating government support for defenders. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guiding-principles-on-supporting-human-rights-defenders))
Taken together, the principles aim to ensure defenders can continue their work effectively, peacefully and safely, with clearer expectations of how UK posts may assist in practice. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guiding-principles-on-supporting-human-rights-defenders))