On May 28, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) country office in N’Djamena hosted an evaluation workshop focused on the three-year project titled « Strengthening Civil Society Organizations Promoting Human Rights and Human Rights Defenders in Chad ». Funded by the European Union and initiated in May 2023, the initiative has empowered 13 local organizations to enhance their efforts in advancing and safeguarding human rights across the country.
key achievements and ongoing challenges
Felix Ahouansou, representing the OHCHR and head of its N’Djamena office, joined by Agnes Kovacs, Head of Governance at the European Union Delegation, commended the dedication of all involved parties. They emphasized the critical need to bolster civil society organizations in a landscape fraught with obstacles, including institutional barriers, shrinking civic space, and security threats.
Ahouansou acknowledged the European Union’s unwavering commitment to human rights initiatives in Chad, highlighting that the project—launched on May 17, 2023, and slated to conclude on June 30, 2026—aims to support civil society organizations and human rights defenders. These groups play a pivotal role in fostering a rule of law that upholds fundamental freedoms.
The project has faced persistent challenges, including institutional constraints and heightened security risks, underscoring the necessity of sustained and adaptive support for these vital actors.
tangible outcomes and future priorities
According to the latest assessment, the initiative has disbursed grants 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 benefiting through the Chad Bar Association. Additionally, 61 individuals—nine of them men—received material, psychosocial, and medical support via a partner organization.
Kovacs underscored the significance of the closing workshop, designed to assess the project’s execution and its direct impact on beneficiaries. She expressed gratitude to the OHCHR country office and the grantee organizations for their contributions.
The event convened dozens of participants, including civil society representatives, technical partners, and direct beneficiaries. Discussions centered on reviewing progress, sharing best practices, and outlining actionable recommendations for the future.