This joint submission was presented to the Human Rights Council at the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Kenya, focusing on the state of civil and political rights, particularly the freedom of assembly, association, and the protection of human rights defenders (HRDs). Submitted by the National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders (Defenders Coalition) in collaboration with key organizations including the Social Justice Centres Working Group, Coalition for Grassroot Human Rights Defenders, Protection International – Africa, Kenya Human Rights Commission, Pema Kenya, The Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya (GALCK+), Universal Rights Group, Ogiek People’s Development Programme, and 0 this report sheds light on the growing challenges facing civic space in Kenya.

The submission outlines the systemic obstacles to the enjoyment of fundamental rights in Kenya, documenting instances of police brutality, repression of peaceful protests, and attacks on HRDs. It calls for urgent reforms to uphold Kenya’s obligations under international human rights standards and protect those working to safeguard the rights of all citizens.

Defenders Coalition – UPR Kenya Joint Submissions (2024) .docx