Talk:Campaigns/Future of WikiForHumanRights

Share your thoughts with us on the following:

Theme

* What themes would you like to see covered under this campaign

The WikiForHumanRights campaign has primarily focused on environmental issues and the triple planetary crises. While this scope is broad, I believe topics like the ones i have listed should be included, as there is little coverage on these topic across different language Wikipedias Climate Finance Climate Justice Renewable Energy Transition Loss and Damage Youth and Climate Activism Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture Gender and Climate Change Ruby D-Brown (talk) 14:53, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

I could add : The impact of environmental crises on human rights, Environmental justice, Civic engagement and advocacy, Education and biodiversity conservation, Adoption of sustainable practices, Environmental conflicts and human rights, Impact of technologies on the environment and human rights, Ecological governance, Access to drinking water and sanitation, Impact of climate change on vulnerable groups. --VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 12:01, 24 October 2024 (UTC)

• For the campaign theme, the following themes should be covered based on discussions with the Maghreb region community: Climate Justice, Environmental Health, and Women, Environmental Sustainability.

Muhammed amine benloulou (talk) 21:37, 3 November 2024 (UTC)

There are a couple of affiliates in other regions that have experienced internet outages, both caused by either natural disasters or political factors. I guess we could also cover that, since access to information is also part of our basic human right. We may also explore other Wikimedia projects, such as Wikinews or Wikibooks, wherein we could supply practical and doable things we can make to reuse energy, recycle materials, or avert disasters. Kunokuno (talk) 07:45, 30 October 2024 (UTC)

• Themes that should be covered include: freedom activists, Sustainable Development Goals and balancing rights with reference to the European Court of Human Rights.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

• The feedback from community discussions and office hours highlighted the need to focus on essential human rights topics. Key areas include expanding awareness on the right to free education, promoting sustainable energy, and increasing regional awareness of human rights principles.--Sandra HANBO (talk) 13:36, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

* What does the theme Sustainability mean to you?

Sustainability means meeting today’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. For me, this means relevant knowledge that is needed to help us achieve this goal should not be undermined. They should be well covered in our encyclopedia. Ruby D-Brown (talk) 14:55, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

When I think of sustainability, the first thing that comes to mind is that it's a way of living and thinking for the long term. In environmental terms, this means making decisions that preserve our planet for future generations. This means reducing our ecological footprint by using resources efficiently and adopting environmentally-friendly practices (choosing renewable energies, preferring local and organic products, promoting recycling and reusing materials, etc.). --VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 12:16, 24 October 2024 (UTC)

Sustainability in our scope of campaign would mean preserving the resources we have not only for our present day but also for the next generation, mitigating the loss through simple practices that we can encourage during our campaigns. I would also point out the sustainability in the context of the contributors we have as we move forward with the campaign and editing. Without these individuals, we would lack manpower in terms of opening gateways for free information. Kunokuno (talk) 07:52, 30 October 2024 (UTC)

• Sustainability means better practice, global risks, balance between our needs, public interest and future proof policies.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

• For our community, sustainability means adopting practices and making decisions that ensure resources—like clean air, water, energy, and land—are available and viable for the long term, causing for boosting the economy.

• By focusing on sustainable practices, communities can build stronger support systems, reduce dependency on nonrenewable resources, and maintain healthy ecosystems for generations to come.--Sandra HANBO (talk) 13:40, 1 November 2024 (UTC)
• To me, sustainability means creating mechanisms and policies that ensure everyone has the right to live in a fair and healthy environment while preserving those resources and conditions for future generations. It involves balancing human needs with environmental protection so that both current and future generations can thrive. Muhammed amine benloulou (talk) 21:38, 3 November 2024 (UTC)

* Do we need to consider a new campaign name to talk about all of the human rights work, other than the name WikiforHumanRights?

WikiForHumanRights" already serves as a broad name, covering various human rights initiatives. Ruby D-Brown (talk) 14:56, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

Personally no, "WikiForHumanRights" is the name that is already known within the Wikimedia community, and changing it is likely to confuse people even more ; What's more, it already covers all the work on human rights. --VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 12:52, 24 October 2024 (UTC)

No, since we have already branded this name, created activities in relation to this, and the scope it covers are already summed up in the name itself. One thing we have done locally is just to translate it in our language. We have made it to WikiParaSaKarapatanPantawo, which also has the same meaning. Kunokuno (talk) 07:51, 30 October 2024 (UTC)

• No, but the scope of this campaign should be revised in order to include other aspects of human rights.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

• Our community changed the name in advance due to safety issues associated with working under this term. Therefore, we prefer a name that reflects the specific rights we are covering, rather than using a broad, umbrella term that may pose safety concerns for the community.--Sandra HANBO (talk) 13:43, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

• Yes and no. On one hand, a new name could bring fresh energy and better reflect the evolving focus of the campaign. However, there's no need to change the name globally has established its brand. At the Maghreb regional level, we have adapted the name to align with the community's preferences, reflecting local engagement while staying connected to the global campaign.

Muhammed amine benloulou (talk) 21:40, 3 November 2024 (UTC)

* Do you think we should find a new name for the Climate & Sustainability campaigns in the movement?

Yes, I support giving the Climate and Sustainability campaign a distinct name to better reflect its focus. Ruby D-Brown (talk) 14:57, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

I'm wondering why there should be another campaign other than WikiForHumanRights, given that the latter already deals with climate and Sustainability issues.--VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 13:10, 24 October 2024 (UTC)

• Yes, there is room to introduce a new name that will better promote its scope, but this should depend on the themes covered in the campaign.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)
• Yes, believing that having new names could inspire fresh ideas, introduce new topics each time, and even bring in new voices.--Sandra HANBO (talk) 13:46, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

• Yes, I believe it would be beneficial to find a new name that highlights emerging challenges and focuses on new topics within climate and sustainability.

Muhammed amine benloulou (talk) 21:40, 3 November 2024 (UTC)

* Should the campaign theme be defined by regions or globally (regionally/globally)? And should the defined theme change annually?

The themes should be regional since different regions face unique challenges. A region-specific theme allows for better alignment with local needs and can change annually to stay relevant. Ruby D-Brown (talk) 14:57, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

I agree with the definition of themes by region, for the same reasons as above.

Now, the question whether to change each year remains to be considered.

I propose that the themes should be changed only after an evaluation has been carried out, and it has been found that the communities have produced a considerable amount of content relating to the theme.

E.g. 2024 theme : impact of climate change. If, after evaluating the metrics for the 2024 campaign, we realize that very little content has been produced on the Wikis in relation to this theme and that there is still a lot to do, we extend the same theme to 2025.

Unless there is a current disaster in the region that requires more attention and awareness-raising. --VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 13:37, 24 October 2024 (UTC)

• The campaign theme should be defined regionally as different regions prioritise different aspects of human rights, and it is virtually impossible to define an overarching theme globally that will cover the priorities and needs of all regions. Additionally, the theme should be changed annually as priorities and needs may change over time.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

• We believe it’s essential for each region to play a key role in determining its own campaign goals. Given the diversity and breadth of our community, we’d love to focus on a different human right each year. This approach would allow us to explore and understand each right more deeply, while also expanding our coverage of human rights topics overall.--Sandra HANBO (talk) 13:49, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

• I think the themes should be defined regionally, as each region has its own unique characteristics and challenges. This approach would allow for a more focused effort on addressing local issues and provide space to highlight region-specific concerns.

Muhammed amine benloulou (talk) 21:41, 3 November 2024 (UTC)

Coordination: Decision-making and accountability on theme, timelines, communication and campaign programme design

* Do you want to see the campaign led regionally or led by regional coordinators model or globally coordinated team? What other structure ideas do you have for the campaign?

From my years of experience, the campaign should have a committee that leads the effort regionally. Each year, there can be rotation of committee members to allow room for those who will want to be relieved of their role for new members to join. A regional committee would work closely with country coordinators to implement the campaign locally. Ruby D-Brown (talk) 15:02, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

Regional coordinators (team) model. --VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 14:01, 24 October 2024 (UTC)

• The campaign should be led regionally using the regional coordinators model. In order to make this work, global learning spaces should be used (e.g. Let's Connect), announcements should be made earlier so that affiliates can plan activities in their annual plans, and regional discussions for interested communities should take place.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

• I believe the regional coordinators model has been successful so far, but it would be beneficial to introduce a rotation system. This would give more people in the region the opportunity to lead and bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the campaign.

Muhammed amine benloulou (talk) 21:42, 3 November 2024 (UTC)

* When you consider the regional coordination of the campaign, do you think there are specific tasks/deliverables that the regional coordinators would need to carry to ensure a successful campaign?

Here sre a few suggestions of roles based on my experience;

• Collaborate with local organizers to implement campaigns effectively
• Onboard and support new campaign organizers
• Identify and connect with partners
• Host regional office hours for guidance
• Define the annual campaign focus
• Manage campaign communications and resources (like guides)
• Maintain the campaign’s meta page
• Attend local campaign events to offer insights
• Evaluate the campaign and report outcomes
• Track metrics and share impact reports with the community

Ruby D-Brown (talk) 15:09, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

Over and above everything that's already been said, working with local organizers to identify the theme for the year for the region.--VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 14:18, 24 October 2024 (UTC)

• Regional coordinators should introduce new organisers to the campaign, create guidelines for participation, liaise with the Wikimedia Foundation, share insights with the Communication Committee, and provide contextualised insights and knowledge about their region and communities.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

• In addition to @Ruby D-Brown suggestions, I believe regional coordinators should also focus on creating a strong social media strategy to enhance the campaign’s visibility. Additionally, organizing capacity-building sessions for local organizers, especially new ones, would be beneficial to help them effectively manage and run the campaign. This would ensure more successful and sustainable outcomes across the region. Muhammed amine benloulou (talk) 21:43, 3 November 2024 (UTC)

* Should the role of the regional coordinator be placed in an affiliate/hub structure?

The campaign should remain independent to ensure openness and inclusivity. Affiliates can serve as resource sponsors without leading the campaign directly, helping prevent bias and ensure broader participation.Ruby D-Brown (talk) 15:11, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

Not necessarily. --VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 18:21, 27 October 2024 (UTC)

• No, the role of the regional coordinator should remain independent from the affiliate/hub structure.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

• The role of the regional coordinator should allow for independence, enabling them to manage the campaign more effectively. However, building partnerships with affiliates or hubs can provide additional support and resources, helping to enhance the campaign's reach and impact.

Muhammed amine benloulou (talk) 21:44, 3 November 2024 (UTC)

* When you consider the global coordination of the campaign, how would you want it to look, e.g. alternating seats by region? Alternating affiliates leading the campaign?

Committee members should allow for rotation and fresh perspectives. New members could be nominated or elected after each term to maintain momentum and diversity. There should be advisory team to support and guide the process. Ruby D-Brown (talk) 15:16, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

• Affiliates leading the campaign should alternate between regions on a rotational basis. Furthermore, it is convenient to establish an advisory board consisting of past regional coordinators that would advise the new regional coordinators.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

* In the global coordination of the campaign, what are some roles you would want to see within a committee? e.g. Communications, organizer tools set up and management (technical support role) etc.

• Project Manager & Regional Facilitator
• Communication and Graphic Designer
• Capacity Building Facilitator
• Bilingual Communications Facilitator

Ruby D-Brown (talk) 15:16, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

• A committee should take roles regarding the development and use of tools, bridging knowledge gaps, conflict mitigation, resolution of content disputes and the enforcement of the Code of Conduct.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

The role of WMF within campaigns & partnerships

* How do you think a UN partnership will benefit your local campaign?

• Provide access to global reports, data, and studies relevant to sustainability and human rights topics
• Assist with securing funding, grants, or in-kind support for campaign activities.
• Boost the campaign’s visibility through endorsement or collaboration with UN agencies.
• Offer training, workshops, and webinars led by UN experts on climate, human rights, and sustainable development.
• Provide opportunities to feature the local campaign in international UN events and conferences.
• Co-create or distribute toolkits, guides, and materials to support local awareness campaigns.
• Offer awards or recognition programs to encourage and highlight outstanding local campaign efforts.

Ruby D-Brown (talk) 15:31, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

In addition to the above:

• Run the WikiforHumanRights campaign in collaboration with local communities (like Swedish embassies celebrating WikiGap with wiki communities in different countries)
• Make available the resources (documents, etc.) needed to help wiki communities find the sources they need to enrich articles related to the environment and human rights on various Wikimedia projects. --VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 18:47, 27 October 2024 (UTC)

• A UN partnership will benefit the campaign in multiple ways. Firstly, it would be beneficial for local communities to work with local UN offices in the same fashion as they worked with the Swedish embassies in the WikiGap campaign. Secondly, it would be a good opportunity to reach new people through the UN pipelines. Thirdly, this partnership may be beneficial as UN declarations, compacts and recommendations are usually implemented into national law. Fourthly, the partnership may support the creation of articles citing UN documents and reports as sources.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

The involvement of the UN in the local campaign would go a long way to ensure that there's substantial backup with relevant agency and institutions. It will also help legitimize the activities of the local campaign and create an avenue for widening the audience reach. Iwuala Lucy (talk) 11:46, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

• We recognize the importance of the UN's role in this campaign and its involvement with local efforts. Although effective communication has been challenging over the past four years, we are confident in the reliability and value of collaborating with them through workshops or other activities. --Sandra HANBO (talk) 13:55, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

* Do you think the partnership to launch the campaign annually with the UN benefits your local campaign, and (if yes) how?

Yes, the UN partnership strengthens local campaigns by enhancing visibility and offering expert support aligned with global sustainability goals. Ruby D-Brown (talk) 15:33, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

Yes, it brings an extra touch in terms of visibility, awareness, experience of human rights and also in terms of raising the profile of the campaign within local communities. --VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 19:11, 27 October 2024 (UTC)

• Yes, a partnership with the UN would benefit the local campaign as it would increase awareness, reputation and reliability.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

Yes, the UN being a large organization with local subsidiaries has a great deal to offer and will benefit the local campaign as I believe that leveraging on such partnership would ensure sustainability and development of the local campaign. Take for instance, with its SDGs, the local campaign would not lack in accessing content akin with their community need. Iwuala Lucy (talk) 11:55, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

• Yes, we are confident in the reliability and value of collaborating with the UN through workshops or other activities.--Sandra HANBO (talk) 13:55, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

* What benefits would you like your partnership to bring to your campaign?

• Access to expert knowledge and resources
• Opportunities for collaboration with global and regional partners
• Tab into new aligned audience
• Enhanced credibility and visibility

Ruby D-Brown (talk) 15:35, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

• Networking with other UN partners
• Access to resources (financial, information database, etc.)
• Long-term collaboration, ...--VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 19:21, 27 October 2024 (UTC)

• A UN partnership has no downsides and brings multiple benefits, such as awareness, understanding, increased trust in the UN and its institutions, and new connections for communities.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

There are lots of benefits such a partnership could attract and they include: accessibility to relevant contents and resources that would be crucial for the success of the campaign. Such partnership with a large body like the UN is bound to bring about increase in visibility and ensures sustainability. Iwuala Lucy (talk) 11:58, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

• We don't have more, as all the points mentioned in the previous answers. --Sandra HANBO (talk) 13:57, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

* What tasks should the Foundation carry in the campaign? (e.g. Rapid grants that meet the guidelines, tool adoption support)

• Financial grants for local organizers
• Supporting with resources and funding for regional committee members
• Collaborate with UN partners to host webinars and support campaign themes
• Educating and buidling capacity for new tools that will improve campaign impact

Ruby D-Brown (talk) 15:24, 23 October 2024 (UTC)

• Concerning rapid grant, several communities have expressed an interest, but often some are blocked because funding is refused. The Foundation should try to help communities in this regard.
• Financial support for regional committee members
• Provided regional committee members with tools to improve campaign implementation.
• Consolidate the partnership with UN, both globally and with local Wiki communities. --VALENTIN NVJ (talk) 19:34, 27 October 2024 (UTC)

• The Wikimedia Foundation should be engaged in the development of automation tools with Wikidata and a dashboard that would count every contribution to Wikipedia.--Kiril Simeonovski (talk) 15:36, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

The Foundation's role in the implementation of the campaign cannot be underestimated.

• In terms of fund, the Foundation's provision of funding either through Rapid Grant or GSF is very crucial for the implementation, development and sustainability of the campaign.
• Also, provision of relevant tools together with skilled personnels that would help train and equip the local organizers with the know-hows of these tools should also be taken into consideration.

Iwuala Lucy (talk) 12:03, 1 November 2024 (UTC)

• The Foundation should focus on the following tasks to support the campaign effectively:

1. Developing Technical Tools: Provide digital resources that enhance campaign management and outreach.
2. Publicity and Advertising Support: Help promote the campaign to reach a broader audience within the communities.
3. Facilitating Rapid Grants: Simplify access to rapid grants for small organizations and community groups to ensure smooth campaign operations.
4. Producing Campaign Materials: Create and distribute physical and digital booklets to raise awareness and offer detailed information about the campaign.
5. Increasing Community Awareness: Lead initiatives to inform and educate communities about the campaign's objectives and benefits.--Sandra HANBO (talk) 14:03, 1 November 2024 (UTC)