The “Committee for Justice” (CFJ) has organized an intensive one-day training program aimed at empowering Sudanese youth by enhancing their capabilities in human rights. This initiative comes in response to the increasing challenges in Sudan, including political instability and continuous violations of fundamental rights and freedoms.
The program took place in Kampala, Uganda, with 30 Sudanese participants, including students, activists, and community leaders, all committed to defending rights, freedoms, and advocating for justice and accountability in Sudan.
– Training Program Activities:
The training began with an introduction to the fundamental concepts of human rights, highlighting core principles such as human dignity, equality, and non-discrimination.
Experts then provided insights into the evolution of human rights within the Sudanese context, discussing major challenges, including restrictions on public freedoms, arbitrary arrests, and ongoing violations against activists and human rights defenders.
The session also covered international and regional legal frameworks related to human rights. Participants learned about the international treaties Sudan has ratified and the obligations they entail. Additionally, they were introduced to UN human rights mechanisms, including special rapporteurs, investigation committees, and the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), as well as how activists can engage with these bodies to report violations effectively.
– Practical Component of the Training:
The hands-on segment of the training focused on monitoring and documentation skills. Participants were equipped with tools and techniques for professionally and safely gathering evidence on human rights violations.
They learned how to document cases using precise standards, including victim testimonies, field evidence collection, and drafting human rights reports following internationally recognized formats. The training included practical exercises on conducting interviews with victims and witnesses, emphasizing ethical and security considerations during the documentation process.
The program also addressed effective advocacy strategies, providing guidance on developing awareness campaigns to promote human rights and influence decision-makers. Participants explored ways to utilize traditional and digital media to raise awareness and how to build alliances with civil society organizations to increase pressure on authorities for human rights reforms.
At the end of the training, participants developed individual and group action plans for initiatives aimed at promoting human rights in their communities. These plans focused on implementing awareness campaigns, providing legal assistance to victims, and engaging with international human rights organizations.
This training program is part of CFJ’s ongoing efforts to support human rights defenders in Sudan and empower youth to play an active role in fostering a culture of rights and freedoms, ultimately contributing to a more just and democratic society.
