On May 28, the United Nations Human Rights Office in N’Djamena convened a crucial evaluation workshop. This gathering focused on the “Support for Civil Society Organizations Promoting Human Rights and Human Rights Defenders in Chad” project. Launched in May 2023 with funding from the European Union, this initiative has empowered 13 local organizations, significantly strengthening their efforts to promote and safeguard human rights across Chad.

During the workshop, Félix Ahouansou, who serves as the United Nations Human Rights Office representative and country head, along with Agnès Kovacs, head of the Governance section at the European Union Delegation, commended the dedication of all involved stakeholders. Both emphasized the vital need to enhance the capabilities of civil society organizations, particularly within Chad’s challenging environment for human rights advocacy.

Mr. Ahouansou conveyed the High Commissioner’s deep appreciation to the European Union for its unwavering commitment to human rights initiatives in Chad. He reiterated that this specific project, which commenced on May 17, 2023, and is slated to run until June 30, 2026, is designed to bolster civil society organizations and human rights defenders. These groups are recognized as indispensable pillars in fostering a rule of law state that upholds fundamental freedoms.

He also highlighted the persistent obstacles faced by these crucial actors, including institutional limitations, the shrinking civic space, and prevalent security risks. This underscores the imperative for sustained and tailored support to navigate these complex challenges effectively.

Regarding the tangible outcomes, Mr. Ahouansou detailed how the project has successfully provided grants to 13 organizations dedicated to human rights work across the nation. A total of 58 individuals, survivors of gender-based violence and other human rights abuses, received vital legal and judicial aid, with 25 cases handled through the Chad Bar Association. Furthermore, 61 people, including nine men, accessed essential material, psychosocial, and medical assistance via a dedicated partner organization.

Agnès Kovacs, for her part, underscored the significance of this evaluative workshop, which serves to assess the project’s implementation progress and its direct impact on beneficiaries. She extended her gratitude to the United Nations Human Rights Office country bureau and to the grant-receiving organizations for their collaborative efforts.

The workshop brought together dozens of participants, encompassing representatives from civil society organizations, technical partners, and direct beneficiaries. Discussions facilitated a comprehensive review of the actions undertaken, fostered the sharing of best practices, and culminated in the formulation of strategic recommendations for future endeavors.