In contexts where civil liberties are restricted, under repressive governments and amid internal or international conflicts, the civilian population faces a serious risk of fundamental rights violations. Human rights defenders, social activists, community leaders, and racialised groups, among others, are frequently targeted due to the vital roles they play in such contexts.

Protection by Presence is a strategy designed to safeguard the lives and civic space of communities, civil society organisations, and activists. Through a deliberately visible presence, it aims to deter potential perpetrators from committing acts of violence, while also providing moral support, solidarity, and accompaniment. 

This five-day training introduces participants to the principles, tools, and practical application of Protection by Presence (PbyP), combining theoretical presentations, participatory exercises, and simulations. 

Participants can expect to learn:

• Introduction to Protection by Presence: fundamental concepts and historical evolution.
• Links between PbP and advocacy, self-protection, and communication strategies.
• Communication skills and advocacy messaging tools.
• Managing difficult actors.
• Challenges and opportunities of Protection by Presence.
• Key concepts and tools of community-based protection: understanding self-protection, community ownership, stakeholder analysis, community risk assessment and community-led protection strategy. 
• Analysis of privilege in power dynamics, including differential and decolonial analysis.
• And more.

The course is taught in English in Manila, Philippines. It is best suited for humanitarian professionals with at least two years of experience. 

The cost to participate is  €350, and scholarships are available upon request in cases of financial need. The payment deadline is 1 October 2026. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate from NOHA.