The strengthening of human rights protection in Côte d'Ivoire has reached a new stage. On Wednesday, May 13, the Executive Bureau of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) hosted Hélène N'Garnim-Ganga , Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System, for a high-level working session.

This meeting aimed to harmonize efforts in the face of social and environmental changes impacting the Ivorian population.

Progress has been made, but challenges remain.

While both organizations welcomed the significant progress made by the country in recent years, they acknowledged that the road ahead remains fraught with obstacles. For the CNDH and the UN, the solution lies in a collective and coordinated response between the State, civil society, and development partners.

Four priorities at the heart of the discussions

The discussions highlighted specific cases requiring urgent intervention:

1. The dignity of the elderly: The president of the CNDH, Adjelou Arnaud Christian, advocated for a drastic improvement in the care (social, health and psychological) of the elderly in order to guarantee their full and complete integration into society.
2. Inclusion in the face of autism: Emphasis was placed on the right to special education and healthcare for children with autism spectrum disorders, while also calling for national awareness to break down stigma.
3. Girls' education: Reaffirmed as a driver of development, girls' education remains a priority. The objective is clear: to remove socio-cultural barriers to promote their empowerment.
4. The environmental emergency: Faced with climate change and the scourge of illegal gold mining , the two institutions are alarmed by the health and ecological consequences on the most vulnerable populations.

"The protection of human rights cannot be limited to texts; it must translate into concrete actions on the ground, particularly for the most vulnerable."

Towards a strengthened commitment

This working session underscores the shared commitment of the UN and the CNDH to translate these discussions into effective public policies. By addressing both traditional social issues and emerging environmental challenges, Côte d'Ivoire reaffirms its ambition to become a regional model for respecting fundamental freedoms.