Where We Work

We work italy & bangladesh together

ITALY

1. Ancient Foundations (Roman Era)

Human rights ideas in Italy trace back to Ancient Rome. Around 450 BCE, the Twelve Tables were created—one of the first attempts to write laws publicly so citizens could know their rights and duties. Later, Roman law emphasized justice, property rights, and legal equality (mainly for male citizens, not everyone).

2. Medieval Period (Limited Rights)

During the Middle Ages, Italy was divided into city-states like Florence, Venice, and Milan. Rights were limited and often depended on social class. However, some cities developed early forms of civic participation and legal systems.

3. Renaissance Influence (14th–16th Century)

The Renaissance began in Italy and promoted human dignity, individual value, and freedom of thought. Thinkers like Niccolò Machiavelli contributed to political ideas about power and governance, although modern human rights were still developing.

4. Unification and Liberal Ideas (19th Century)

Italy became a unified country in 1861 during the Italian Unification. A constitutional monarchy was established, introducing some civil rights such as limited voting and legal protections—but these were not universal.

5. Fascism and Rights Suppression (1922–1943)

Under Benito Mussolini, human rights were heavily restricted. Freedom of speech, press, and political opposition were suppressed. This period marked a major setback for rights in Italy.

6. Modern Human Rights (Post-World War II)

After World War II, Italy became a republic in 1946. The Italian Constitution, adopted in 1948, strongly protects human rights, including:

Freedom of speech and religion
Equality before the law
Workers’ rights
Social welfare protections

Italy also supports global human rights through organizations like the United Nations and the European Union.

BANGLADESH

1. Roots in Struggle (1947–1971)

The human rights journey of Bangladesh began even before its independence. When the region was part of Pakistan after 1947, people in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) faced political, economic, and cultural discrimination.

The Language Movement of 1952 demanded recognition of Bengali as a state language—an early fight for cultural rights.
The Six-Point Movement (1966) led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman called for autonomy and democratic rights.
These movements culminated in the Bangladesh Liberation War, where widespread human rights violations—including genocide, mass killings, and displacement—occurred.

2. Independence and Constitutional Rights (1971–1975)

After independence in 1971, Bangladesh adopted its Constitution in 1972, which guaranteed fundamental human rights such as:

Equality before the law
Freedom of speech and expression
Freedom of religion
Protection from discrimination

The new nation aimed to build a democratic and just society, though challenges quickly emerged.

3. Political Instability and Rights Challenges (1975–1990)

Following the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, Bangladesh experienced military rule and political instability.

Leaders like Ziaur Rahman and Hussain Muhammad Ershad governed during this period.
Civil liberties were often restricted, and press freedom was limited.
Pro-democracy movements grew, demanding restoration of human rights and electoral democracy.

4. Democratic Era and Ongoing Issues (1991–Present)

In 1991, Bangladesh returned to parliamentary democracy, improving the formal structure for human rights. However, challenges remain:

Concerns over freedom of expression and media restrictions
Reports of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances
Labor rights issues, especially in the garment industry
The humanitarian crisis involving Rohingya refugees from Myanmar

Metropolitan Cities (Città Metropolitane) of Italy

HRA Engagement in Italy

The Human Rights Alive Italy (HRA) is dedicated to making human rights a reality for every person and providing practical support to those whose rights are at risk. Our work is centered on empowerment, protection, equality, and access to justice across Italy.

Human Rights Education

We empower individuals and communities with the knowledge they need to understand, protect, and claim their human rights. Our education programs build awareness of fundamental freedoms and encourage respect for the rights of others.

Gender-Based Violence Prevention

IHRO stands firmly against all forms of gender-based violence. We support survivors, advocate for safer environments, and promote gender equality and dignity for all genders.

Legal Aid & Access to Justice

We provide legal assistance to those in need, helping individuals navigate the justice system and defend their rights when they face discrimination, abuse, or other violations.

Child Poverty & Rights Protection

IHRO works to break the cycle of poverty affecting children by promoting their rights, supporting access to education and basic services, and building opportunities for their healthy growth and development.

Human Rights for All

We are committed to ensuring that every person enjoys equal rights and dignity—without discrimination of any kind. Our programs and advocacy promote fairness, inclusion, and respect in every community we serve.