The fight for human rights has never been easy. It has always been a battle between power and accountability, but today, the stakes are higher than ever. Across the world, governments are weaponizing state machinery to silence dissent and crush those who dare to challenge oppressive systems. In Kenya, the abductions of 82 activists since June 2023, allegedly by police forces, represent a chilling escalation in this global human rights backlash.
Now, the #EndAbductionsKE campaign has emerged as a beacon of resistance. Activists have called for nationwide protests on December 30, demanding justice for those who have been abducted and accountability from the state. These protests, planned in all 47 counties and internationally, are a courageous stand against systemic oppression.
As young people from all corners of the globe, this moment calls us not only to watch but to act. It is a time to recognize our power, embrace our responsibility, and stand in solidarity with the brave youth of Kenya and others who are facing similar challenges.
The abductions in Kenya are not an isolated incident. They are part of a global pattern of state-sponsored intimidation and violence aimed at stifling dissent. Whether it’s the anti-LGBTQIA+ laws in Uganda, the brutal suppression of protests in Sudan, or the silencing of journalists in the Philippines, the message is the same: questioning authority comes at a steep price.
Governments are deliberately targeting young people, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and marginalized groups because they see us as the driving force of change. And they’re right. Young people have always been at the forefront of social movements, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and holding the powerful accountable.
This backlash against human rights is a direct response to the growing strength of grassroots movements and the undeniable demand for justice, equality, and systemic change. By suppressing these movements, governments hope to maintain their grip on power. But history has shown us time and again: the resilience of young people can never be underestimated.
As young people, we are uniquely positioned to lead this fight. We are the digital generation, the most interconnected and informed group in history. We have the tools to mobilize, amplify, and sustain movements for change. But more than that, we have the passion, creativity, and resilience to keep fighting even when the odds are stacked against us.
In the face of human rights abuses, our role is clear, and here is what we need to do bangani.
To Speak Out: Silence allows oppression to thrive. By raising our voices—online and offline—we make it harder for abusers to hide their actions. To Organize: Collective action is our greatest strength. Together, we can create movements that challenge power structures and demand accountability. To Stand in Solidarity: Our struggles may be different, but our fight is the same. By standing with one another, we show that an attack on human rights anywhere is an attack on human rights everywhere.
To the young people of Kenya, your courage in the face of such overwhelming adversity is a source of inspiration to all of us. Your fight is not just for your country but for the values we all hold dear: justice, equality, and human dignity.
As you take to the streets under the banner of #EndAbductionsKE, know that you are not alone. Across the world, young people like myself stand in solidarity with you. We are watching, amplifying your voices, and drawing strength from your bravery.
Your resistance is a reminder that change is possible. It reminds us that even when the forces against us seem insurmountable, the determination of young people can light the path forward.
I wish you all the best in your protests. May your voices be heard, your demands be met, and your courage pave the way for a better, more just future.
To young people across the globe facing similar challenges, let us take inspiration from Kenya’s youth and redouble our efforts to fight back against the backlash on human rights. Whether it’s standing against police brutality, demanding climate justice, fighting for gender equality and against gender-based violence and femicide, or protecting the rights of LGBTQIA+ communities, our struggles are interconnected.
Here is what we must also do while we are at it: Amplify Each Other’s Voices: We must use our platforms, including social media platforms to share stories of resistance and expose human rights abuses. Build Cross-Border Solidarity: We must work together across countries and continents to strengthen our movements. Push for Systemic Change: We must advocate for policies and reforms that protect human rights defenders and hold abusers accountable. Lastly but not least, we must Invest in Mental Health and Resilience: We must recognize that activism is emotionally taxing and prioritize the well-being of ourselves and our peers.
This is a defining moment for our generation. The human rights backlash is a test of our resolve, but we have the power to rise above it. Together, we can build a world where dignity, equality, and justice are not ideals but realities.
The fight for human rights is not just about defending the present; it’s about shaping the future. And that future belongs to us. Let us stand together, act boldly, and refuse to let oppression win.
The road ahead will not be easy, but as young people, we have the strength to walk it. Let’s make our voices count, not just for ourselves but for the generations to come.
Comradely regards,
Zintle- South African Human Rights Defender.
