What should I do if I am an artist, journalist, scholar, or activist under threat?

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Below is a list of organizations that help artists, journalists, scholars, and activists under threat. IRAP is independent from the organizations below and does not operate or manage any of the programs or resources linked below.

For journalists

An organization called the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ)  helps some people who are in danger because they are journalists. This website explains how to contact the Committee to Protect Journalists.

For activists

The organizations Protectdefenders.eu and Front Line Defenders help some people who are in danger because they are human rights activists. They also have lists of resources and information that may be helpful for activists.

For writers and artists 

The organization ICORN helps some writers and artists who are in danger because of opinions or ideas expressed through professional work or art. Information on applying for an ICORN residency is here. However, as of February 2023, ICORN is not accepting new applications. ICORN also has a list of other residencies, scholarships, and grants, a list of human rights and free expression organizations, and a list of mobility and arts rights organizations.

For scholars

An organization called the Scholars at Risk helps some people who are in danger because they are scholars. This website explains how to contact Scholars at Risk.

The International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) provides free legal help to some refugees and displaced people. 

IRAP decides to help people based on their need and eligibility for immigration status. IRAP does not decide to help people based on any other social or political or religious criteria.

This website provides general information about legal processes available to some refugees. It is not meant as legal advice for individual applications. 

Requirements may change. Always check for current requirements from the government or agency deciding your request.

If you are in a refugee emergency, we recommend that you contact the UNHCR office in the country where you live.

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