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Madam President, Honourable Members of the European Parliament, 

What happened in Chad on 20 October is unacceptable. The excessive and disproportionate use of force by the Chadian security forces to repress opposition demonstrations led to the death of at least 50 people - likely more - and over 600 arrests. Hundreds of detainees – reportedly, including minors - are being held in a high security prison far from the capital. We understand that some of the arrested have been released in the meantime. 

Trials have started against the detainees and verdicts have already been handed down, often without giving them access to lawyers and in the absence of independent observers. Allegations of serious human rights abuse abound. These are grave breaches of international human rights law and, as such, risk seriously undermining the ongoing political transition.  

The European Union has been Chad’s steadfast partner for years, offering its contribution to help them face their many political, social and economic challenges. Together with our partners, and in particular the African Union, the European Union has supported the transition process that started in 2021 as the basis upon which to build a new social contract in Chad, rooted in the respect of human rights, democratic principles and the rule of law.  

In this spirit, the European Union has been calling on the authorities, including at the highest level, to shed full light on the events of 20 October and their aftermath, and for the full respect of the right to a fair trial and due process of all the arrested.  

Only a credible, independent investigation into what happened, in full respect of the rights of detainees and ensuring accountability and justice for any human rights violations and abuses committed will rebuild trust in Chadian institutions. This will be crucial to allow the transition process to be credible, inclusive and able to pursue its ultimate goal of building back better for the benefit of the Chadian population.  

Thank you.  

Link to the video (starting at 09:25) https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-234711