Conflict, Security, and Human Rights

The Conflict, Security, and Human Rights (CSHR) project is an initiative aimed at addressing the intricate interplay between conflict dynamics, security challenges, and human rights violations across West Africa and the Sahel region. Grounded in a Rights-Based Approach to Security Sector Governance, the project seeks to empower journalists and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to report on conflicts, advocate for human rights, and navigate complex security environments effectively. Through strategic interventions and collaborative efforts, the project seeks to promote peace, stability, and social justice in the region.

Mission

The mission of the CSHR project is to empower journalists and CSOs with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to advocate for human rights, report on conflicts, and engage in constructive dialogue on security sector governance. By fostering collaboration and promoting accountability, we aim to contribute to sustainable peace and development across West Africa.

Our impact so far

Journalists trained

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Workshops

Investigative stories supported

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Strategy Buckets

The CSHR Project employs several strategies to achieve its vision

Capacity Building for Journalists and CSOs

Train and mentor journalists and CSOs to enhance their reporting on conflict, security, and human rights, while supporting investigative journalism to uncover human rights violations and security challenges.

Policy & Stakeholder Dialogue

Facilitate dialogues between security agencies, media, CSOs, and government officials through forums and roundtables, while disseminating knowledge on human rights within security governance.

Evidence-based Research

Undertake research to provide empirical insights into conflict, security challenges, and human rights violations, aiming to inform policy reforms for peace, security, and human rights enhancement.

Advocacy and Engagement

Advocate for policy reforms to strengthen security institutions' accountability and promote human rights respect, alongside public campaigns for a culture of accountability and transparency.

Capacity Building

Improving the skills of journalists in West Africa on media ethics, professionalism, and modern technological tools required in 21st-century newsroom operations.

Cross-Border Collaboration

Build partnerships for information sharing and joint advocacy with regional organizations, CSOs, and media, including organizing cross-border projects to tackle security and conflict resolution challenges.

Vision

Our vision for the Conflict, Security, and Human Rights project is to cultivate an enlightened society and foster a region where human rights are upheld, conflicts are efficiently addressed, and individuals flourish within a secure and equitable environment.

Objectives

To enhance awareness and understanding of human rights issues among journalists and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).

Enhance the capacity of journalists and CSOs to effectively report on conflict-related issues and navigate security challenges while upholding ethical standards and promoting human rights.

To foster a rights-based approach to security sector governance while promoting accountability and transparency within security institutions through advocacy and engagement activities.

Facilitate cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange to address shared challenges and promote regional stability.

To contribute to conflict mitigation and resolution efforts through advocacy, capacity building, and strategic partnerships.

Knowledge Products

Here are some relevant knowledge products based on our research on the Conflict, Security, and Human Rights project