Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (TANGO), with funding from Freedom House through USAID, has successfully reviewed and validated a crucial human rights report prepared by civil society organizations (CSOs) in The Gambia. This report is set to be submitted to the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), a mechanism of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council (HRC) established during the 2005 UN reform process.

The UPR serves as a global platform to promote human rights, foster dialogue, and encourage states to meet their obligations under international human rights law. It embodies principles of universality, impartiality, and non-selectivity, offering an essential tool for addressing human rights issues worldwide. By engaging with civil society organizations, the UPR holds governments accountable for their actions, identifies gaps in human rights protection, and aids in implementing necessary reforms.

The comprehensive review, held over a long day, brought together key CSO actors, leaders of TANGO, representatives from UN agencies, and other human rights advocates. According to Freedom House officials, this marks the fourth time TANGO has submitted a report to the UPR, supporting CSOs under its umbrella in the process as part of their advocacy efforts on human rights issues in The Gambia.

In her opening remarks, Ndey Sireng Bakurin, Executive Director of TANGO, stressed the importance of submitting their own shadow reports. “It is imperative to provide an impartial and fair representation backed by evidence of the true status of human rights development in The Gambia,” she stated. Bakurin emphasized that the UPR offers a critical opportunity to assess progress in the country’s reform processes based on the recommendations from the last reporting cycle.

Bakurin further highlighted the vital role of CSOs and other advocates in the UPR process. “As CSOs, we often bring attention to marginalized voices, underreported and unreported violations, and suggest strong recommendations for action,” she said.

John Charles Njie, the ex-chairman of TANGO, echoed the need for unity among Gambian CSOs. “It is always good for CSOs to continue our role in holding the government accountable. But until Gambian CSOs work together as one and become nonpartisan, we will struggle to hold this government, and subsequent governments, accountable,” Njie remarked. He warned that losing credibility could undermine the impact of their reports and called on CSO members to unite and support TANGO’s leadership.

Njie also encouraged non-NGO members to register with TANGO to strengthen their collective voice. “All organizations that are not official TANGO members, please subscribe and become members. A stronger voice will enable us to advocate more effectively,” he urged.

The review and validation of this human rights report mark a significant step forward in The Gambia’s ongoing efforts to promote and protect human rights. The collaborative efforts of TANGO, CSOs, and international partners underscore the critical importance of accountability and reform in the nation’s journey toward justice and human rights for all.