Defend International (commonly known as DI) is a non-governmental organization focused on promoting and protecting human rights in the Middle East and North Africa.

DI operates internationally, and is made up of a network of volunteers, representatives, and civic organisations working at national, regional, and sub-regional levels.

[2] Defend International is a partner of the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves, an initiative led by the United Nations Foundation,[3][4] and a member of the Peace One Day NGO Coalition.

[7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15] DI's mission does not target any particular demographic within its geographic area of focus, but its work often concerns minority groups like the Yazidi and Middle Eastern Christians.

While the legal framework aims to protect victims and prosecute perpetrators, effective implementation requires overcoming cultural, social, and systemic challenges.

[45] Co-founder of Defend International Widad Akreyi stated that ISIL uses slavery and rape as weapons of war against Yazidis and Christians.