Activists and civil society organisations advocating for rights-based government policies face persistent threats from state authorities, particularly in the realm of national security. Surveillance, harassment, and intimidation are used to instil fear and silence critical voices. This relentless pressure erodes not just the resilience of individual activists and organisations, but the sustainability of entire movements.

At Open Briefing, we believe resilience isn’t about avoiding risk but understanding and managing it effectively. By taking a systematic yet human-centred approach to security, activists can continue their vital work, even when facing powerful adversaries.

Lessons from West Africa

Open Briefing partnered with a women-led human rights organisation in West Africa that is frequently targeted by security services for scrutinising national security policy and exposing abuses of power. Over the years, its staff have endured repeated office raids, interrogations, and surveillance.

“The frequency of raids and interrogations meant I didn’t sleep,” shared the organisation’s director. “Knowing I was constantly watched made me doubt my judgment. That’s why so many in our sector react emotionally rather than strategically. But to be safe and effective, planning and preparation are essential.”

From fear to empowerment

Our security consultant, Dan Williamson, worked with the director and her team to break down their risks – identifying adversaries, threats, and potential allies. Together, we analysed the motivations behind state surveillance.

“Open Briefing helped me realise that surveillance was inevitable because of our work,” she explained. “Understanding the motivations of the military and security services gave me closure. I knew I wasn’t doing anything wrong.”

With a clearer understanding of their risks, we co-designed and prioritised security measures, including training in anti-surveillance and kidnap avoidance. Crucially, the director also learned how to stay neutral, objective, and evidence-based during interrogations – reducing the risk of escalation.

As their resilience grew, so did their strategic confidence. They pushed back against a damaging media narrative about a raid, managing the story on their own terms. “We didn’t want to give the impression that we were afraid,” the director noted, reflecting a newfound sense of agency.

Dan highlighted the change in approach, explaining that the organisation’s response evolved as they gained a deeper understanding of the security services’ motivations. “We realised their intentions were not something to be scared of,” he noted. “They were simply trying to assess the organisation’s credibility – basically conducting due diligence. This realisation shifted the response from fear to engagement and led to new and useful contacts who can now support the director and her organisation should more-concerning threats arise.”

This shift had a profound impact, transforming fear into strategic engagement and strengthening the organisation’s network of allies.

The importance of wellbeing

Physical safety is only one piece of the puzzle. Constant surveillance takes a psychological toll, eroding confidence and increasing self-doubt. Our support included access to trained counsellors, helping the director and her team process these pressures.

“Psychological support was critical,” she shared. “I questioned myself constantly. But talking to an independent expert made me realise I’m stronger than I thought. I stopped minimising myself and my achievements.”

Navigating risk with confidence

Activists and advocates will always face risks. True resilience isn’t about eliminating threats but understanding them – and responding with clarity and confidence.

By staying informed about adversaries’ tactics, adopting clear security protocols, and cultivating a supportive organisational culture, activists can remain safe, focused, and impactful – even in violent environments and closed civic spaces.

“Through Open Briefing, I realised the threats won’t go away,” the director reflected. “But I also learned that I’m not afraid. What I can control is my fear – and how I plan, strategise, and act.” This is what true resilience looks like – not the absence of risk, but the courage to face it with wisdom and confidence.

For security reasons, we have anonymised our grassroots partner and its staff throughout this article.