On Human Rights Day, the need to protect human rights is now more urgent than ever

Thursday, December 11 2025

Today, as we mark Human Rights Day, the world order is fundamentally being reshaped amidst dangerous humanitarian global crises. The space for safety is shrinking, reminding us that human rights can never be just a mere footnote.

Today, amidst this, we are launching our End of Year Appeal.

In the words of Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, in his video message for the 80th anniversary of the commencement of the UN Charter in 1945: “… Inequalities are rising, conflicts are raging, the climate emergency is mounting, and some are creating and trying to deepen divisions within societies and between countries. But we must not give up.”

Here, the need to protect human rights is more urgent than ever.

People who had held residency here as refugees are being rounded up in dawn raids, re-detained and served with Notices for Removal to Nauru on visas they did not ask for and do not want.

Right now, we are continuing to fight against these and other injustices for thousands of people who seek our help – through direct legal action for many and strategic litigation for systemic change.

We continue to advocate fearlessly for urgent, major reform:

· Ending deportation to danger without due process

· Ending deportation to permanent exile from Australia

· Real opportunities for families to reunite here

· Enduring protection in Australia for all people held in PNG and Nauru – and those brought back here

· A safety net of supports for all in need

But real change does not just happen on its own. It’s up to us to make it happen – together.

On Human Rights Day, please consider donating to power our work to directly defending the rights of people whose lives are on the line – ensuring they get a fair go before the law and a better tomorrow.

With thanks and appreciation,

David Manne
Refugee Legal
CEO & Principal Solicitor