conectas

Conectas Direitos Humanos, commonly referred to as Conectas, is a Brazilian non-governmental organization focused on promoting and defending human rights. The organization engages in advocacy, research, and strategic litigation to advance protections at the national level in Brazil and in international forums. It works to influence public policy, monitor abuses, and support civil society efforts to hold institutions accountable.

Founded in 2001 by lawyers, activists, and academics, Conectas operates from São Paulo with programs across the country and collaborations with regional and international networks. Its activities combine legal action, policy analysis, and public campaigns to address a range of human rights concerns, including due process, police accountability, freedom of expression, and the rights of migrants, minority groups, and marginalized communities.

Conectas conducts strategic litigation before Brazilian courts and international human rights mechanisms, and it produces reports, briefs, and evidence-based analyses to inform policy debates. The organization also offers training and technical assistance to lawyers, journalists, and civil society partners, aiming to strengthen advocacy capacity and promote accountability within state institutions.

Governance is led by an executive director and a board of directors, with funding drawn from foundations, international donors, and partner organizations. The organization emphasizes transparency, accountability, and collaboration with civil society to advance human rights protections. Conectas participates in regional and global networks to amplify Brazilian human rights concerns and contribute to broader international human rights standards.