The United Nations Human Rights Office in Chad hosted an evaluation workshop in N’Djamena on May 28 to review the progress of a three-year initiative supporting civil society organizations dedicated to human rights advocacy. Launched in May 2023 with funding from the European Union, the project has empowered 13 local organizations to enhance their efforts in promoting and safeguarding fundamental freedoms across the country.
Key contributions and challenges in human rights protection
During the event, Félix Ahouansou, the UN Human Rights Representative and Country Office Head, and Agnès Kovacs, Head of Governance at the European Union Delegation, highlighted the critical role of civil society in upholding human rights amid persistent challenges. Ahouansou commended the EU’s sustained commitment to human rights initiatives in Chad, emphasizing that the project—running from May 17, 2023, to June 30, 2026—aims to bolster local organizations and human rights defenders as pillars of a rights-respecting state.
He also underscored the systemic obstacles faced by these defenders, including bureaucratic hurdles, shrinking civic spaces, and security threats, stressing the need for continuous and adaptive support to sustain their impact.
Tangible outcomes for victims and communities
The initiative has delivered measurable results, including financial grants distributed to 13 human rights-focused organizations nationwide. A total of 58 survivors of gender-based violence and human rights abuses received legal and judicial assistance, with 25 cases handled in collaboration with the Chadian Bar Association. Additionally, 61 individuals—nine of them men—benefited from material, psychosocial, and medical support provided by partner organizations.
Collaborative evaluation and future strategies
Agnès Kovacs emphasized the significance of the closing workshop in assessing project execution and its direct impact on beneficiaries. The gathering brought together dozens of participants, including civil society representatives, technical partners, and direct beneficiaries, fostering an exchange of best practices and actionable recommendations for future phases.
