8
Context
In this report, we primarily consider more
high‑tech, innovative technology tools, though
some low‑tech tools are also considered.
That said, the environment in which many human
rights defenders are working, especially in Global South
countries, has not (yet) changed dramatically in terms
of their technology usage.
As we discuss later on in the report, there is somewhat
of a reluctance to change, and priorities lie in continuing
their issue-based documentation, rather than on
changing documentation processes. The context for
human rights defenders is one of resource limitation and
intense pressure; a combination which does not invite
experimenting with new technologies.
From our findings, human rights defenders (HRDs) are using technology tools in a variety of ways:
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Communication
to share their findings more broadly, such as through videos, press releases,
and to connect online with groups working on similar issues.
Analysis
to identify patterns that otherwise would have been less visible without
technology tools – such as repeated attacks in certain areas – and presenting
this data on maps, charts or interactive online features.
Information management
to catalogue, store, and manage information about incidents and events
related to human rights cases, as well as sharing it with others working
on similar issues.
Identifying new incidents
using digital tools and digital data to discover, verify or corroborate violations
- for example, by scanning social media or online video networks, or mobile
messaging platforms.
Historical archiving
to scan paper documents, classify and tag them, make them machine-readable,
encrypt them and make backups in case they get lost.