UTAWALEZA COALITION

LGBTIQ+ Human Rights Defenders

Our Vision

A just, inclusive, and safe Malawi where LGBTIQ+ Human Rights Defenders are fully recognized, respected and protected.

Our Mission

To build a strong unified national coalition of human rights defenders that advances the legal and social rights of LGBTIQ+ people in Malawi through coordinated advocacy, protection and public acceptance.

Core Values

Diversity & Inclusivity
Collaboration
Courage & Resilience
Transparency & Accountability
Non-Discrimination
Collective Protection
Confidentiality

Our 7 Pillars

1. Coalition Establishment

Establishment and Operationalization of LGBTIQ+ HRD coalition.

2. Capacity Enhancement

Capacity and skills enhancement for HRDs on protection, litigation, and advocacy.

3. Joint Advocacy

Coordinate joint advocacy strategies and policy engagements.

4. Robust Protection

Preventive, protective, and rapid response mechanisms for HRDs.

5. Public Awareness

Strategic communication and campaigns to reduce stigma.

6. Strategic Litigation

Support for legal cases challenging discriminatory laws.

7. Research & Documentation

Generate evidence that informs advocacy, policy and legal reforms.

Our Objectives

  • Establish and Operationalize a Unified Coalition of LGBTIQ+ HRDs
  • Enhance Capacity and Skills of LGBTIQ+ HRDs on protection, litigation, and advocacy
  • Promote and Coordinate Joint Advocacy strategies and policy actions
  • Provide Robust Protection through preventive and rapid response mechanisms
  • Promote Public Awareness to reduce stigma and foster acceptance
  • Support Strategic Litigation to advance LGBTIQ+ rights
  • Generate Evidence through research and documentation

PRIVACY POLICY

Confidentiality & Data Protection

Our Commitment

We strictly protect privacy, information, identities and security related details of HRDs and community members. The Coalition will require informed consent before sharing member information.

Data Protection Principles

  • Members' personal and sensitive data is stored securely with restricted access
  • Informed consent required before sharing member information
  • Special protocols apply for HRDs in high-risk contexts
  • Anonymised directories for members in hostile environments
  • Secure communication platforms for all coalition business
  • Emergency Contact Register accessible only to designated staff

Confidentiality

Members must protect confidential information and sensitive identities. Breach of confidentiality is grounds for suspension or termination of membership as outlined in the Membership Policy.

Membership Agreement

All members are required to sign the Confidentiality Consent Form and Member Agreement Form during onboarding, acknowledging their commitment to protect the privacy and security of fellow HRDs.