From July 7 to 18, The Hague became the stage for the Move 4 Human Rights Summer Edition, a summer program dedicated to civic engagement, dialogue, and action. Organized by Human Security Collective, Justice & Peace, Stichting Our Bodies Our Voice, and Human Rights in the Picture, and with support from Maatschappelijke Diensttijd (MDT), the Summer Edition brought together over 40 young participants with curiosity, passion, and determination to explore pressing human rights challenges.

Over two weeks, they engaged in interactive workshops, collaborated on group projects, and connected with organizations and practitioners working on the frontlines of human rights. Human Security Collective facilitated Human Security in Practice, an immersive workshop exploring the concept of human security, its link to human rights, and its role as a framework for collective action. Through a hands-on, learning-by-doing approach, participants applied key theories, practiced inclusive communication and storytelling, and reflected on the vital role citizens, especially youth, play in building resilient communities.

 

The program’s collaborative spirit came to life in the group projects. Teams tackled themes such as migrant rights, cultural diversity, refugee support, femicide, and police violence. These complex issues were brought to life in creative formats including board games, booklets, mapping exercises, audiovisual pieces, and posters, making the challenges accessible and engaging. The final day showcased these efforts in a closing event that provided a space for engagement with diverse stakeholders from civil society, policy, and education, celebrating creativity and impactful outcomes.

 

What began as a gathering of individuals evolved into a community of young changemakers. The Move 4 Human Rights Summer Edition demonstrated how bridging theory and practice through collaboration and creativity can make human rights tangible in everyday life, leaving a lasting impact well beyond the program’s two weeks.