Original Source: reliefweb.int
On November 27, 2024, Benin welcomed the UN Special Rapporteur, Ben Saul, who commended the nation’s innovative strategies in tackling terrorism, especially in its northern areas. He praised the blending of security enhancements with developmental measures designed to establish resilience against radicalization caused by community grievances and socio-economic disparities.
Saul noted that Benin’s fortified border security measures, including increased law enforcement presence, aimed to prevent terrorist infiltration while being hospitable to refugees from the Sahel. However, he expressed worries over the humanitarian impacts, such as increased internal displacement that put additional pressure on already struggling communities.
The Special Rapporteur advocated for a clearer definition of terrorism in Benin’s laws to ensure that only genuine acts of terrorism are prosecuted, aligning with international standards. He highlighted concerns regarding numerous arrests, some arbitrary, and the long wait many individuals face for their cases to be resolved, leading to years of pretrial detention.
Saul also emphasized the critical need to address prison overcrowding and improve detention conditions in accordance with international norms. He recognized the crucial role that civil society organizations play in fostering human rights within counter-terrorism initiatives, highlighting their work in facilitating justice and addressing underlying violence causes.
A detailed report summarizing his observations will be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in March 2025, reflecting an ongoing dialogue about human rights within the framework of counter-terrorism efforts.
The UN expert’s visit to Benin is part of a broader initiative to ensure that counter-terrorism measures respect human rights. The Special Rapporteurs assess the impact of anti-terror laws and practices across nations, highlighting the balance that must be maintained between security and fundamental freedoms. This mission is particularly pertinent in regions susceptible to violent extremism, where socioeconomic conditions may fuel grievances that terrorist groups exploit.
The visit by the UN Special Rapporteur underscores the importance of a balanced approach to counter-terrorism in Benin. While Benin shows promise with its integrated strategies, concerns regarding judicial processes, definitions of terrorism, and prison conditions need to be addressed to safeguard human rights. Enhancing local resilience and cooperation with civil society will be vital for sustainable progress in combating terrorism without compromising fundamental freedoms.
