Deventer

The beautiful city of Deventer is known for its Hanseatic and internationally-oriented past, which are reflected in the mix of cultures of people who now call the city their home. Driven by its international composition, strong support for human rights, and local solidarity with human rights defenders, Deventer became a Shelter City in 2018 as a collaboration between the municipality of Deventer, Humanitas Residential Care Center Deventer and Saxion University of Applied Sciences.

Our support

Rest and re-enegize

We show respect for the individuality of each human rights defender, so they feel comfortable being themselves throughout their stay. In Deventer, defenders can focus on their well-being and care for their health while enjoying Deventer’s calm and natural surroundings. 

Tailored support and capacity-building

In Shelter City Deventer, human rights defenders receive support tailored to their individual needs, for example medical care and development of expertise. Guests also have the opportunity to strengthen their capacities through courses at the Saxion University, which can benefit their personal and professional development. 

Engage with local allies

In Shelter City Deventer, human rights defenders can choose to speak at various events and platforms about their work. These sessions enable defenders to raise awareness about the human rights situation in their country, connect with a wider audience, and reinforce support for their cause. Defenders can also meet with local organizations to expand their international network of supporters.

Our team

Nicoleta Mitut
Nicoleta Mitut

Manager International Affairs, Deventer Municipality

Our stories

Luis, building peace through the fight against impunity in Venezuela
In 2023, Luis wrote this article in commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists.
Shelter City The Hague
David, in search of justice for missing persons
David is a human rights defender from Mexico focused on advising and guiding family members of missing persons.
Shelter City Utrecht
Yendri, mobilizing LGBTIQ+ communities in Venezuela
Yendri works on advancing the rights of Venezuelan LGBTIQ+ individuals. Find out more about his work through a podcast episode and documentary.
Shelter City Utrecht
Nataliia, a journalist in service of human rights
Nataliia documents human rights violations and the plight of minorities such as the LGBTQ+ community, migrants, and people living with HIV.
Shelter City Nijmegen
Angel Sulub, keeping Mayan values alive
Angel, an indigenous rights defender from Mexico, shares how he is working to keep Mayan values alive.
Shelter City Nijmegen
Juvie, using documentation as a tool against injustice
Juvie, a human rights defender from the Philippines, shares her journey of over a decade in grassroots activism and documenting human rights violations.
Shelter City Maastricht
Iván, reflecting on his journey as a human rights defender
Iván, former diplomat and Shelter City Amsterdam guest, shares his personal journey of becoming a human rights defender.
Shelter City Amsterdam
Iván, reflexionando sobre su trayectoria como defensor de los derechos humanos
Iván, antiguo diplomático y huésped de Shelter City Amsterdam, comparte su trayectoria personal como defensor de los derechos humanos.
Shelter City Amsterdam

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