Gabon ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT) on 22 September 2010, committing to strengthening safeguards against torture and ill-treatment.
Since then, national authorities have taken steps to comply with the protocol’s recommendations, notably by working towards establishing a National Preventive Mechanism (NPM).
As part of this ongoing effort, the APT conducted a mission to Libreville from 3-6 March 2025, in partnership with the OHCHR Regional Office for Central Africa. The mission aimed to support key stakeholders in ensuring the NPM's effective implementation, strengthening their capacities, and facilitating dialogue on the next steps in making the mechanism operational.
Renewed government commitment
A key outcome of the mission was high-level meetings with Gabon’s Minister of Justice and Minister of Interior, during which government representatives reaffirmed their commitment to torture prevention. Authorities expressed their determination to move forward with establishing the NPM, ensuring its independence and functionality. APT welcomed this political will and underscored the importance of a transparent and inclusive selection process for NPM members.
Parliamentary engagement: Defining a rigorous selection process
A dedicated workshop was held with members of Parliament, who will soon establish an ad hoc committee to oversee the selection of NPM members. Discussions focused on selection criteria, emphasising the need for a multidisciplinary composition and strict independence. APT highlighted that these elements are essential for the NPM’s credibility and effectiveness, aligning with international human rights standards.
Strengthening civil society’s role
Another crucial component of the mission was a capacity-building workshop with civil society organisations (CSOs), which are expected to play a key role in supporting the future NPM once it is established.
CSOs serve as vital sources of information on detention conditions and, given their diverse expertise, can collaborate with the NPM on specific initiatives relevant to its mandate. They also contribute to capacity-building efforts and will be essential in monitoring the implementation of the NPM’s future recommendations.
The APT emphasised the importance of fostering an ongoing and structured dialogue between the NPM and CSOs from the outset to ensure strong cooperation and maximise the impact of torture prevention efforts.
Next steps and future prospects
With the enactment of the November 21, 2024 law granting new mandates to the NPM under the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH), the next priority is ensuring its proper implementation. This requires a robust and transparent selection process for its members, along with adequate resources to guarantee its independence.
The APT will continue to support Gabon’s authorities, Parliament, and civil society throughout this process, ensuring that the NPM is established in line with international standards. This mission forms part of a broader APT initiative, supported by OPCAT Special Fund resources, to assist Gabon in setting up effective NPMs.
Gabon now has a crucial opportunity to strengthen its torture prevention framework, and the APT remains committed to accompanying the country in this effort.
