Middelburg

Nestled in the Zeeland region of the Netherlands, the beautiful and quaint city of Middelburg is the second city in the world to join Shelter City. Since 2014, Middelburg has offered a safe and warm space to human rights defenders at risk from around the world. It is coordinated by the municipality of Middelburg together with Roosevelt College.

Our support

Rest and re-energize

The quiet and relaxing city of Middelburg provides human rights defenders at risk with a safe and welcoming environment where they can take time for themselves, rest and re-energize. Here, they can take their mind off of their work, while focusing on themselves.

Tailormade support

During their stay, defenders can access tailored support such as language courses, medical care, and recreational activities. They can also attend courses at the local Roosevelt College.

Engage with local allies

The welcoming community of people and students in Middelburg provides defenders with many opportunities to build and strengthen their solidarity networks. Shelter City Middelburg also organizes events and lectures with defenders, together with local organizations, the municipality, and educational institutions.

Our stories

Zabib, balancing motherhood and activism in South Sudan
"Being an activist shouldn’t stop women from having children, and having children shouldn’t stop women from their activist work. Let’s not give up."
Shelter City Rotterdam
Félix, shedding light on the harsh reality in Mexico, despite the dangers
Learn more about Félix, a Mexican photojournalist and a human rights defender.
Shelter City Amsterdam
Jhon León: defensores de los derechos humanos unidos por Shelter City para cambiar el mundo
Jhon es un defensor de derechos humanos colombiano. Aquí reflexiona sobre cómo Shelter City ha impactado, de manera positiva, su vida y trabajo.
Shelter City The Hague
Jhon León: Shelter City unites human rights defenders to change the world
John is a Colombian human rights defender. Here he reflects on how Shelter City has positively impacted his life and his work.
Shelter City The Hague
Raúl, creating safe spaces for the LGBTIQ+ community
Read about Mexican LGBTIQ+ defender Raul and his work to provide shelter to LGBTIQ+ persons.
Shelter City Utrecht
Wiecza, fighting for a better future for Venezuela
Learn more about Wiecza, a Venezuelan lawyer and human rights defender.
Shelter City Eindhoven
Numan, fighting for LGBTIQ+ rights in Malaysia
Learn more about Numan and his work to support the LGBTIQ+ community in Malaysia.
Shelter City Amsterdam
Manjula Pradeep, the inspiring activist behind Shelter City
Manjula Pradeep is an Indian human rights defenders and the inspiration behind Shelter City.
Shelter City Europe

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