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IRO – Digital Security Helpline Profile

by IRO•

Profile

Resource Center, Digital Security Helpline, and Refugee Innovation Hub 

For

Human Rights Defenders, Journalists, Civil Society Activists, Refugees, Asylum Seekers, IDPs, Migrants, and Host Communities

Organization:

Integrated Refugee Organization (IRO)

Location:

Human Rights House, Plot 1853 John Kiyingi Road, Nsambya, Kampala – Uganda

Contact:

Donatien NIYONGENDAKO

E-mail : executive@integratedrefugee.org

                                                info@integratedrefugee.org

Phone : +256705086996

1. Digital Channels:

2. Overview of the Initiatives

The Integrated Refugee Organization (IRO) is a key player in promoting the rights and well-being of human rights defenders, journalists, civil society activists, refugees, IDPs and host communities. The establishment of the Resource Center, Digital Security Helpline, and Refugee Innovation Hub reflects IRO’s commitment to fostering safety, empowerment, and innovation for vulnerable populations. These initiatives provide critical support and resources to enhance digital security, access to education, entrepreneurship, and advocacy for the protection of human rights.

These services are available both in person at the Human Rights House, Plot 1853 John Kiyingi Road, Nsambya, Kampala – Uganda, and through a variety of digital platforms, ensuring access for a wide range of stakeholders across Uganda and worldwide.

2.1. Resource Center

2.1.1. Purpose:

The Resource Center provides a safe and supportive space for learning, empowerment, and collaboration. It serves as a central hub for human rights defenders,  journalists, civil society activists, refugees and host communities to access educational resources, build essential skills, and connect with others to promote their well-being and resilience.

2.1.2. Target Audience:

  • Human Rights Defenders
  • Journalists
  • Civil Society Activists
  • Minority and marginalized groups
  • Refugees, Asylum Seekers, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Migrants and Host Communities

2.1.3. Key features:

  • The Resource Center offers access to books, digital learning tools, and vocational training that cover a wide range of topics including digital literacy, language acquisition, journalism, entrepreneurship, and human rights advocacy.
  • Computers, internet, and multimedia equipment are available to help visitors enhance their skills, research, and communicate with the broader world.
  • Customers/Participants can engage in workshops focused on entrepreneurship, career development, and financial literacy to help them improve their livelihoods and gain independence.
  • The center encourages community learning and networking opportunities among human rights defenders, journalists, activists, and refugees, helping them advocate for justice, rights, and inclusive solutions to local challenges.

2.2. Digital Security Helpline

2.2.1. Purpose:

The Digital Security Helpline (DSH) offers vital protection and support for individuals and organizations facing digital threats. This helpline is specifically designed for human rights defenders, journalists, refugees, civil society activists, and other vulnerable groups to ensure their privacy, security, and protection against online harassment, cyber-attacks, and other digital risks.

2.2.2. Target Audience:

  • Human Rights Defenders
  • Journalists and Media Professionals
  • Civil Society Organizations, NGOs and Activists
  • Refugees, IDPs, Asylum Seekers and Migrants

2.2.3. Key Services:

  • Immediate digital support: Users can reach out to the helpline via various platforms (web, Telegram, Signal, WhatsApp, email) to receive guidance and support on maintaining digital security.
  • Cyber threat assistance: The helpline assists with reporting and addressing incidents of online harassment, data breaches, and cyberattacks.
  • Digital hygiene training: Educational resources and workshops are available to teach best practices for online privacy, encryption, and safeguarding digital assets.
  • Real-time monitoring: The helpline offers real-time monitoring of threats against human rights defenders, journalists, and activists, providing immediate responses to digital emergencies.

2.2.4. Contact Channels:

2.3. Refugee Innovation Hub

2.3.1. Purpose:

The Refugee Innovation Hub (RINNOVA-HUB) is an incubator for creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation. This initiative aims to empower refugees, IDPs, asylum seekers, migrants, and host communities to develop and implement innovative solutions to the challenges they face. The hub supports the creation of refugee-led businesses, social enterprises, and community initiatives that address pressing local needs.

2.3.2. Target Audience:

  • Refugees and Asylum Seekers
  • Migrants and IDPs
  • Host Communities
  • Entrepreneurs and Innovators
  • Civil Society Leaders and Activists

2.3.3. Key Features:

  • The hub provides mentorship, training, and financial literacy programs to help participants develop and scale businesses that can positively impact their communities.
  • A collaborative environment where refugees and innovators work together to create sustainable solutions to the socio-economic challenges within their communities.
  • The hub offers tailored workshops on topics such as business planning, leadership development, social entrepreneurship, and innovation in crisis contexts.
  • Beneficiaries/Customers/Participants are connected with mentors, investors, and industry professionals who can offer guidance and support, facilitating partnerships that foster innovation and growth.

2.3.4. Outcomes:

The Refugee Innovation Hub aims to promote self-reliance and economic empowerment by encouraging refugees and migrants to explore entrepreneurship as a path to improving their livelihoods. Additionally, it provides a space for collaboration and innovation that bridges the gap between refugees, local communities, and development organizations.

2.3.5. Target Beneficiaries

  • Refugees, Asylum Seekers, IDPs and Migrants: These initiatives primarily serve displaced populations by providing access to educational resources, digital security tools, and entrepreneurial support to help them thrive in challenging environments.
  • Human Rights Defenders and Journalists: The Digital Security Helpline and Resource Center offer crucial protection and advocacy tools for those at risk due to their work in defending human rights and holding powerful institutions accountable.
  • Civil Society Activists: Activists benefit from the training, digital support, and networking opportunities offered by the Resource Center and Innovation Hub, helping them build stronger, more resilient organizations.
  • IDPs and Host Communities: The Resource Center and Innovation Hub are open to local populations as well, promoting peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity by offering skill-building programs and business development opportunities.

2.3.6. Accessing Support and Resources

  • Website: All services and resources can be accessed via the official helpdesk website at https://helpdesk.integratedrefugee.org .
  • Telegram: The dedicated Telegram bot is available for inquiries and assistance: https://t.me/HelpDesk_IRO_PPI_bot.
  • Signal and WhatsApp: Helpline support is accessible through Signal and WhatsApp using the following number: +256 200986996
  • Email: For further inquiries or support, individuals can reach out via email to helpdesk@integratedrefugee.org.
  • In-Person Services: Those in Kampala can access the Resource Center and Innovation Hub by visiting the Human Rights House, Plot 1853 John Kiyingi Road, Nsambya, Kampala – Uganda, where in-person workshops, training, and mentorship are offered.

3. Conclusion

The Resource Center, Digital Security Helpline, and Refugee Innovation Hub are vital resources aimed at empowering some of the most vulnerable populations, including refugees, IDPs, migrants, human rights defenders, journalists, civil society activists and host communities. Through a combination of digital tools, on-the-ground support, and innovative programming, IRO is committed to enhancing security, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable growth for those in need.

IRO invites all stakeholders, including human rights defenders, journalists, activists, and communities, to leverage these new resources for their personal and professional development, advocacy efforts, and entrepreneurial ambitions.

For more details or to access these services, visit https://integratedrefugee.org/ or contact us via the above listed digital channels.

NB: All these services are free of charge.

4. Resource Center Gallery