Defending human rights

The Human Rights Academy is a free online learning platform that allows participants to embark on a self-paced learning journey to understand the principles of human rights and how to use them as a tool for positive change.

We believe that knowledge of rights is essential for claiming them, defending them, and promoting them and hope that our courses will inspire you to take action.

Below or a selection of courses that explore those defending human rights, and and some of the politics and policy around human rights. If you have any queries or feedback, and would like to get in touch with the Human Rights Education Team, please email [email protected]

Ever wondered who Human Rights Defenders are and why their work matters?

In this 20-minute self-paced course, you’ll learn how to talk confidently with family and friends about the role of Human Rights Defenders and the challenges they face. Through three short interactive modules, featuring videos, quizzes, and real-life case studies, you’ll discover that anyone can be a human rights defender. Start today and take the first step toward standing up for human rights.

Interested in learning even more about Human Rights Defenders?

Dive into the world of Human Rights Defenders with this self-paced, 15-hour course across five modules. Explore who they are, the challenges they face, and how you can join their mission to fight injustice. By the end, you’ll be equipped to champion human rights, evaluate risks in your context, and harness your voice to speak out for change.

Would you like to learn about the principles of advocacy and how you can develop your own advocacy initiatives?

This 3.5-hour course will introduce you to the essential principles of advocacy and explore practical skills to make your efforts effective. Whether you’re new to advocacy, or an experienced campaigner, you’ll learn from seasoned human rights advocates through short videos and real-world stories, and you’ll also create your own strategic plan using our advocacy toolkit. By the end of the course, you’ll know how to define advocacy, communicate persuasively, build partnerships, analyse decision-makers, and design impactful campaigns for change.

Looking to build your knowledge of human rights and British politics, and learn key strategies to influence and advocate for human rights?

Developed by Amnesty, and delivered through FutureLearn, this free three-week course explores how the UK political system works, the role of parliamentarians in protecting freedoms, and the routes of influence that drive change. You’ll gain the confidence and skills to engage decision-makers, design persuasive strategies, and campaign effectively for human rights.

Are you a researcher, campaigner, or activist passionate about human rights in law enforcement?

Over nine self-paced modules, this course offers a clear, practical introduction to the international laws and standards that govern policing. Through interactive exercises, Amnesty research materials, videos, and self-directed resources, you’ll explore a wide range of critical topics, from accountability and use of force, to the protection of fundamental freedoms.

Please note: This course contains sensitive material that some learners may find distressing.

Find more online courses on Futurelearn, Amnesty International’s Human Rights Academy and Human Rights Workout.

For a more related resources and recommended reads organised by topic, why not explore our Knowledge Hub.

If there is any learning content that you would like to see on this page, or think we should prioritise, please email [email protected]. We collate all suggestions to help us plan and prioritise future learning and training content. We cannot guarantee that anything you request will be created.