Tchad three-year human rights project backed by un eu nears evaluation

On May 28, the United Nations Human Rights Office in Chad hosted a pivotal workshop in N’Djamena to assess the progress of a three-year initiative aimed at bolstering human rights advocacy through local civil society organizations. The project, titled Support for Civil Society Organizations Promoting Human Rights and Human Rights Defenders in Chad, received funding from the European Union and was launched in May 2023.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including Félix Ahouansou, the UN Human Rights Representative and Head of the Country Office, and Agnès Kovacs, Head of the Governance Section at the European Union Delegation in Chad. Both speakers commended the dedication of civil society actors while emphasizing the critical need to enhance their operational capacities amid escalating challenges in human rights defense.

Félix Ahouansou conveyed the UN Human Rights Office’s deep appreciation for the European Union’s unwavering support for human rights initiatives in Chad. He highlighted that the project, which began on May 17, 2023, and is slated to run until June 30, 2026, is designed to empower civil society organizations and human rights defenders. These groups are seen as cornerstones in fostering a rule of law state that upholds fundamental freedoms and liberties.

He also addressed the persistent hurdles faced by these organizations, including bureaucratic constraints, shrinking civic space, and security threats. Ahouansou stressed the importance of sustained and tailored assistance to ensure their continued effectiveness.

Key achievements and outcomes

The project has already yielded tangible results. Thirteen local organizations dedicated to human rights advocacy received grants to amplify their impact across Chad. Additionally, 58 survivors of gender-based violence and human rights abuses received essential legal and judicial support, with 25 of these cases handled in collaboration with the Chad Bar Association. Meanwhile, 61 individuals—nine of whom were men—benefited from material, psychosocial, and medical assistance through a partner organization.

Collaborative review and future roadmap

Agnès Kovacs underscored the significance of the evaluation workshop as a platform to review project execution and measure direct benefits to beneficiaries. She extended her gratitude to the UN Human Rights Office’s country team and the grantee organizations for their commitment and hard work.

The workshop convened dozens of participants, including civil society representatives, technical partners, and direct beneficiaries. Discussions centered on reviewing completed activities, sharing best practices, and outlining actionable recommendations to guide future efforts in promoting and protecting human rights in Chad.