Since January 1990, the DTP has conducted regional training sessions in Bangkok, Manila and Sydney, as well as in-country sessions in Australia, Fiji, Nepal, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Thailand. To date, the DTP has trained over 500 human rights defenders from 30 countries and constituencies. Participants affiliated with organisations are encouraged to apply, but individual applicants will be considered. Priority goes to women and indigenous peoples. The DTP training is interactive, with emphasis on group work, role plays and simulations.
Media training includes practising in front of a camera and with video replay.
Simulations include a session of the UN Commission on Human Rights. DTP trainers are experienced and highly respected local, regional and international NGO leaders, media professionals and committed academics who understand DTP's philosophy of interactive involvement of participants. Written skills in English are helpful, but not as important as an ability to understand and communicate in discussions. It is also a practical reference and resource for participants when they return home. The partners help DTP to identify and select the most appropriate participants for the training program.