Neftaly: The Role of Human Rights Law in Informal Settlement Safety

Introduction

Safety in informal settlements is not just a development issue—it is fundamentally a human rights issue. The right to safe, adequate housing and protection from harm is enshrined in international human rights law, providing a powerful legal framework to advocate for safer living conditions in informal settlements.

Neftaly leverages the principles of human rights law to support communities in claiming their rights and demanding safety, dignity, and justice.

Human Rights Law and Informal Settlement Safety

• Right to Adequate Housing: International instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights affirm everyone’s right to housing that guarantees safety, security, and access to basic services.
• Right to Life and Security: Governments have obligations to protect residents from threats such as fires, flooding, violence, and hazardous living conditions.
• Non-Discrimination: Human rights law mandates that safety protections must be inclusive, ensuring marginalized groups within informal settlements—women, children, elderly, and persons with disabilities—receive equal protection and attention.
• Participation and Accountability: Residents have the right to participate in decisions affecting their safety and to hold authorities accountable for neglect or violations.

Neftaly’s Application of Human Rights Law

???? Empowering Communities through Rights Awareness

Neftaly educates informal settlement residents about their rights related to safety, housing, and dignity—building confidence to advocate for change.

???? Using Rights-Based Data Advocacy

By collecting and sharing safety hazard data linked to rights violations, Neftaly provides compelling evidence that frames safety issues within a human rights context.

???? Advocating for Rights-Based Policies

Neftaly works with governments and stakeholders to align local safety policies with human rights standards—ensuring protections are inclusive and enforceable.

???? Capacity Building for Legal and Rights Advocacy

We train local leaders and community groups on human rights principles and mechanisms, strengthening their ability to engage in effective advocacy and legal action.

Impact of a Human Rights Approach

• Stronger legal and moral mandates for governments to act on safety issues
• Increased recognition of informal settlement residents as rights-holders, not just beneficiaries
• Improved inclusion of vulnerable groups in safety planning and interventions
• Enhanced accountability and redress mechanisms for safety violations

Case in Point

Neftaly-supported communities have successfully used human rights frameworks to challenge unsafe evictions and demand improved infrastructure—leading to safer living conditions and greater respect for residents’ dignity.

Conclusion

Human rights law provides a vital foundation for advancing safety in informal settlements. Neftaly is committed to embedding these principles in all safety initiatives—empowering communities to claim their rights and create safer, more just urban environments.

Together, we can make safety a fundamental right for all.