On May 28, the United Nations Human Rights Office in Chad hosted an evaluation workshop in N’Djamena to assess the progress of a three-year initiative aimed at bolstering local human rights organizations. The project, funded by the European Union and launched in May 2023, has empowered 13 civil society groups to advance the protection and promotion of fundamental freedoms across the country.
Addressing participants, Félix Ahouansou, the UN Human Rights Representative and Head of the Chad Office, and Agnès Kovacs, Head of Governance at the European Union Delegation, commended the dedication of those involved. They emphasized the critical need to bolster the operational capacity of civil society organizations amid growing challenges to human rights advocacy.
Félix Ahouansou extended his gratitude to the European Union for its unwavering support of human rights initiatives in Chad. He noted that the project, which runs from May 17, 2023, to June 30, 2026, is designed to strengthen civil society organizations and human rights defenders—key players in fostering a rule of law that upholds fundamental liberties.
The workshop also highlighted persistent obstacles faced by these organizations, including institutional hurdles, shrinking civic space, and security threats. Ahouansou stressed the importance of sustainable, tailored support to help these actors overcome these challenges.
Measurable progress in human rights protection
The initiative has yielded tangible results, with 13 organizations receiving grants to expand their human rights work nationwide. A total of 58 victims of gender-based violence and human rights violations have received legal and judicial assistance, including 25 supported by the Chad Bar Association. Additionally, 61 individuals—including nine men—benefited from material, psychosocial, and medical aid through partner organizations.
Agnès Kovacs underscored the significance of the closing workshop, which provided an opportunity to evaluate the project’s execution and its direct impact on beneficiaries. She also expressed appreciation for the UN Human Rights Office in Chad and the grantee organizations.
Collaborative reflections and future recommendations
The event gathered dozens of participants, including civil society representatives, technical partners, and direct beneficiaries. Discussions centered on reviewing completed actions, sharing successful strategies, and identifying key recommendations to guide future efforts.
