Nearly 300 organizations unite to affirm commitment to the European Convention on Human Rights

On the 75th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), a coalition of nearly 300 organizations, including prominent advocacy groups such as Liberty, Amnesty International, Shelter, and Mind, have issued a resounding declaration of support for the foundational human rights treaty.

The joint statement unequivocally denounces the unwarranted scapegoating of human rights protections, urging those in positions of authority to champion and uphold the principles enshrined within the ECHR and the Human Rights Act.

Signatories to the statement, comprising a diverse spectrum of entities ranging from Parkinson's UK to the End Violence Against Women Coalition, the Centre for Military Justice, and even socially conscious businesses like Ben and Jerry’s, emphasize the profound impact of the Convention on the lives of individuals across the United Kingdom.

The statement underscores the vital role the ECHR has played in safeguarding the rights of vulnerable populations, including survivors of sexual violence, LGBTQ+ service members, journalists acting in the public interest, individuals with mental health conditions, and those who have suffered miscarriages of justice.

The organizations collectively call upon the government to actively promote the benefits of human rights protections, highlighting their capacity to enhance public services and foster international cooperation.

Sam Grant, Director of External Relations at Liberty, asserted, "For decades, our human rights laws have been the bedrock of our daily lives, empowering us to express ourselves freely, embrace love without constraint, and live in peace. These rights were earned through tireless struggle, and we must resist any attempts by current or future governments to erode them."

Andrea Simon, Executive Director of the End Violence Against Women Coalition, emphasized the critical role of human rights protections in their mission, stating, "The Human Rights Act and ECHR are indispensable tools in our fight to end violence against women and girls, ensuring that victims and survivors have access to support, safety, and justice when the state fails them."

Emma Norton, Director of the Centre for Military Justice, highlighted the positive impact of the ECHR on service members and their families, citing instances of securing justice, upholding dignity for LGBTQ+ personnel, and promoting safety.

Click here to see the full list of signatures.