The International Bar Association (IBA) Human Rights Institute has released its Annual Review on Human Rights 2016.

The review says human rights came under attack in 2016, both in real terms as well as in terms of the hostile rhetoric being used.

"At the same time, the independence of the legal profession is under threat in many countries. Often those who are responsible for protecting the rights of individuals, and who are brave enough to do so in the most dangerous environments, lack the necessary resources to carry out their work effectively."

The review says the Human Rights Institute continues to assist legal professionals around the world in upholding their mandate to protect human rights, providing them with the tools to do so effectively, and speaking up for the profession wherever it comes under threat.