Summary of Findings: The Gambia | National Human Rights Institutions (NHRI) and their Interactions with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

Scope & Method

The study in the Gambia was completed using literature review, 26 key informant interviews, and 3,176 online survey responses, and a stakeholder workshop to address the research questions below:

1. How does interaction with an NHRI or CSO change the way individuals move through their justice pathway?
2. Are there different points in an individual’s justice journey that show where trust in the state is increased or decreased?
3. What actionable strategies can NHRIs or CSOs take to strengthen the ability of NHRIs to seek justice for individuals who experience rights violations?

The Human Rights Support Mechanism

The HRSM is a global, multiyear, USAID-funded program implemented by the PROGRESS consortium composed of Freedom House, ABA ROLI, Pact, Search for Common Ground, and Internews. To learn more about HRSM, visit: HRSM Website

Objectives of the Study

The Study is in line with the HRSM Learning Plan and was conducted by the ABA ROLI in collaboration with Freedom House with the aim of filling the evidence gaps in the growing academic literature on the role of National Human Rights Institutions in pursuing justice.

These studies were made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the American Bar Association (ABA). The contents are the responsibility of PROGRESS and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

The materials contained in the studies herein represent the opinions of the authors and editors and should not be construed to be those of either the American Bar Association (ABA) or the ABA Rule of Law Initiative unless adopted pursuant to the bylaws of the Association. Nothing contained herein is to be considered as the rendering of legal advice for specific cases, and readers are responsible for obtaining such advice from their own legal counsel. These materials and any forms and agreements herein are intended for educational and informational purposes only.