On May 21, a comprehensive human rights awareness campaign kicked off at the central police station in Koumra, targeting the Chad Defence and Security Forces (FDS). The initiative seeks to embed human rights compliance and the fight against impunity as core values within military operations.
bridging security and dignity
The challenge of maintaining public order without compromising human dignity remains ever-present. To address this, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have joined forces, focusing on judicial procedures to ensure fairness and accountability.
As part of the Project for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, this training extends to soldiers, gendarmes, police officers, and members of the Chadian National and Nomadic Guard (GNNT). Sessions are held across various barracks of these units, ensuring widespread participation.
breaking the cycle of impunity
The project’s primary goals include preventing abuses, dismantling cycles of impunity, and fostering trust between citizens and the security personnel sworn to protect them. Through targeted workshops, participants are educated on the stringent protection of human rights, with a particular emphasis on gender-based violence (GBV) and the nuances of military justice in Chad.
Additionally, gendarmes are being trained on the Code of Ethics for the Gendarmerie, equipping them with the tools to uphold procedural rigor and institutional integrity. The initiative goes beyond mere legal reminders—it aims to reshape institutional culture so that every officer becomes a proactive guardian of fundamental freedoms.
interactive learning for real-world impact
Over two days, United Nations experts and senior military leaders engage with FDS personnel in an intensive, interactive program. The sessions blend legal reviews, case studies, and open discussions on ground realities, ensuring that theoretical knowledge translates into practical, on-the-ground action.
By equipping its uniformed personnel with the skills to prevent abuses and uphold human rights, Chad is taking a decisive step toward building a security apparatus that respects and protects dignity. The next critical phase will involve translating these training modules into everyday reflexes that benefit all citizens seeking justice.
