Celebrating 10 years of Shelter City Nijmegen

A decade of standing side by side with human rights defenders

On June 13, Shelter City Nijmegen convened former and current participants, partners, and local officials to mark a decade of hosting and supporting human rights defenders at risk. At the historic Zuiderkapel Stevenskerk in Nijmegen, former guests joined virtually to recount their experiences in the city. Distinguished attendees included Henry, a spring 2025 participant from Zimbabwe; Eva Rieter, lecturer at Radboud University and a member of Shelter City Nijmegen; Eduard Nazarski, former Amnesty International Director and Supervisory Board Chairperson for PAX for Peace; Wim Geerts, Human Rights ambassador of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Hubert Bruls, Mayor of Nijmegen; and many other community members.

For the past decade, Bureau Wijland has coordinated Shelter City Nijmegen in close collaboration with Radboud University, Municipality of Nijmegen, SSH&, Driestroom, Radboud In’to Languages, and Amnesty Nijmegen. Together, they fostered a safe and welcoming space for 20 human rights defenders coming from around the world. In Nijmegen, the defenders found an opportunity to rest, restrategize alongside local allies, and expand their international networks before eventually returning to their home country rejuvenated and with strengthened capacities. A momentous achievement for the city, highlighting its role in protecting human rights defenders by contributing to their advocacy efforts.

When I came in March, the green outside was not there. All dead trees but slowly, you could see the green coming. It was like my life, there was hope in my life and I could see myself growing together with this season, within Nijmegen. I have met wonderful people, lovely people, a great team. Whoever came up with the idea of Shelter City, was truly inspired from above.

Henry, Shelter City Nijmegen guest in spring 2025

The celebration did not end there. The sixth edition of the annual Shelter City Solidarity Walk took place on July 5. Starting from Land van Ooij, the walk featured routes ranging from 5 to 30 kilometres. In recognition of those who stand up for human rights worldwide, the proceeds from this annual event contribute directly to the ongoing work and human rights causes of Shelter City Nijmegen guests.

To conclude the anniversary year, Shelter City Nijmegen is publishing a commemorative book in December. To honour all participating defenders, the book contextualizes their everyday realities and complements them with scientifically grounded insights into the landscape of their originating countries.

Meaningful contributions to international human rights can begin at the local level. Cities opening up for individuals speaking out at great personal risk and expanding their access to timely and targeted support take a stand against global injustice.

We congratulate Shelter City Nijmegen on this significant milestone and reaffirm our collective commitment to standing side by side with human rights defenders.