Human Rights Defenders, journalists and civil society are facing new challenges and increased pressure in many countries and regions of the world. Recognizing that an active civil society is paramount for any democratic society, the American president invited leaders from 36 countries to discuss law regulations and other limitations put on civil society in their fight for democracy. The meeting took place as as the United Nations General Assembly gathers in New York this week.
PM Stoltenberg, who attended the meeting alongside the Norwegian Ambassador to the UN, Geir O. Pedersen, was invited as leader for a country deeply engaged in the fight for democracy and human rights. Norway is also supporting Lifeline, an initiative assisting human rights defenders.
President Obama plans to host a follow-up meeting next year to discuss further progress on this matter.