The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has held discussions with a high-level United Nations delegation led by the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), alongside the UN Resident Coordinator and other senior officials.
The meeting focused on the human rights situation in The Gambia and key national developments, with particular emphasis on democratic governance, peace and stability, as well as ways to enhance cooperation between the Commission and the United Nations.
The forthcoming presidential election also featured prominently during the discussions. The Head of UNOWAS explained that the visit was intended to strengthen the existing partnership and deepen collaboration with the NHRC.
In his remarks, the Chairperson of the Commission acknowledged the continued assistance provided by the UN Peacebuilding Fund since the establishment of the NHRC. He also outlined the Commission’s involvement in monitoring the electoral process, noting that it had been observing key stages, including voter registration and the nomination of presidential candidates.
He assured the delegation that the Commission would maintain its monitoring activities throughout the entire electoral cycle to promote respect for human rights and ensure a peaceful electoral environment.
The Chairperson further highlighted the NHRC’s initiatives to address hate speech and prevent inflammatory political rhetoric. He disclosed that the Commission had been engaging political parties and other stakeholders to discourage the use of abusive, derogatory and provocative language, particularly during election campaigns.
He also informed the delegation that the Commission had conducted a study on hate speech in The Gambia and organised consultations involving religious leaders, political parties and civil society organisations to develop collective approaches to addressing the issue.
The engagement reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation between the NHRC and the United Nations in advancing human rights protection, strengthening democratic institutions and promoting peace and stability in The Gambia, particularly as the country approaches the December 5 presidential election.
