On 10 November 2021, the government of Ivory Coast adopted the inter-ministerial order N°972/MJDH/MEMD/MIS, creating the Committee for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders, a protection mechanism for human rights defenders (HRDs). The aim of this committee is to guarantee and supervise the effective protection of HRDs, as well as monitor the implementation of protection measures. The committee will consist of five members, all representatives of the government, that will meet three times per year or more if needed. The Committee’s aim is to take appropriate measures for the elimination of all threats, interruptions or issues that limit the rights of HRDs. Although this is an important step, questions have been raised about the tangible impact of this order, especially about whether it is sufficiently clear and effective in its aim to protect and assist HRDs.

Find the original document here in French (Portail Officiel du gouvernement de Côte d’Ivoire).