Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery 2026

Media Defence, The Kennedy Human Rights Center, and Vuka invite qualified lawyers from Sub-Saharan Africa to apply for the Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery 2026, a three-day workshop focused on strategic litigation for freedom of expression, assembly, association, and human rights defenders.

What it offers

• A three-day in-person litigation surgery in Nairobi, Kenya, from October 2nd–4th, 2026.
• A maximum of 15 participants will be selected.
• For selected lawyers, Media Defence will cover:
  • Return travel from your home country to Nairobi.
  • Accommodation for the day before and during the surgery.
  • Travel expenses to and from the airport in your home country and Nairobi.
  • Reimbursement for visa costs (participants must arrange and cover any visa requirements).
  • A per diem for travel days and the surgery duration (rate to be determined).

Who can apply

• Qualified lawyers who currently work and reside in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Lawyers in private practice or affiliated with NGOs promoting human rights through litigation in the region.
• Applicants must demonstrate:
  • Working proficiency in English.
  • Experience, interest, or knowledge in freedom of expression, assembly, association, digital rights, or related areas.
  • Knowledge of or experience with international and regional human rights law.
• Strong applications from lawyers without prior human rights experience but committed to working in this area will also be considered.

What you'll do

• Participate in expert-led sessions and case-based discussions.
• Present and discuss cases you are working on with peers and specialists.
• Learn to develop effective litigation strategies and strengthen case preparation.
• Explore the use of national, regional, and international mechanisms to address rights violations.
• Build a network of lawyers working on related human rights cases.

How to apply

• Complete the online application or send the completed application form to training@mediadefence.org.
• The deadline for applications is July 31st, 2026.
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; the call may close early if a high volume of submissions is received.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted after the deadline.

Good to know

• The surgery will focus on practical litigation strategies, peer feedback, and collaboration.
• Media Defence is committed to fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion in participant selection.
• For accessibility support or general inquiries, contact Media Defence directly.