The Chadian defense and security forces (FDS) have launched a comprehensive human rights sensitization campaign in Koumra, centered at the Central Commissariat. The initiative, which kicked off on May 21, aims to embed respect for human dignity and the eradication of impunity at the core of military operations.
Bridging security and human rights
Maintaining public order while upholding fundamental rights presents an ongoing challenge. To address this, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have joined forces, designing a program that integrates human rights principles into judicial procedures.
This effort falls under the broader Human Rights Promotion and Protection Support Project, targeting military personnel, gendarmes, police officers, and members of the National and Nomadic Guard of Chad (GNNT). Training sessions are being conducted across various barracks to ensure widespread participation.
Key objectives and training focus
The project’s primary goals include preventing abuses, dismantling cycles of impunity, and fostering trust between citizens and those sworn to protect them. Participants receive in-depth instruction on human rights protection, with a strong emphasis on gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and military justice frameworks.
Gendarmes are also being introduced to their specific code of conduct, ensuring procedural rigor and ethical compliance across all security institutions.
Transforming institutional culture
Beyond mere legal reminders, the campaign seeks to reshape institutional attitudes, empowering every security agent to become a proactive defender of fundamental freedoms. Over two days, UN experts and senior military leaders engage in intensive, interactive sessions with FDS personnel. These include legal refresher courses, real-world case studies, and open discussions on operational challenges.
From theory to practice
By equipping its uniformed personnel with the tools to combat abuse and violence, Chad is advancing toward a security apparatus that prioritizes human rights. The next critical step will be translating these theoretical modules into everyday reflexes, ensuring justice and dignity for all citizens.
