ISHR provides human rights defenders with a range of tools and support, including access to high-quality research and analysis, tailored training and capacity building services, legal advice and strategic litigation, and advocacy and networking support.

ISHR has been involved in the development of international standards and protection mechanisms relevant to human rights defenders.

In 2006, ISHR was instrumental in the drafting of the Yogyakarta Principles on the application of international human rights law in relation to sexual orientation and gender identity.

In 2012, working with NGO partners such as Amnesty International, ISHR led civil society efforts to strengthen UN human rights treaty body, prevent their weakening, and better connect their work with victims and human rights defenders.

Working with supportive states and NGOs, ISHR advocacy led to the adoption of a Human Rights Council resolution calling on all States to review and amend national laws to respect and protect the work of human rights defenders.