Delphine Kemneloum Djiraïbé, an icon of justice and human rights

An iconic figure in Africa’s human rights struggle, lawyer Delphine Kemneloum Djiraïbé is one of Chad’s first women lawyers and a leading voice for dignity, equality and justice. For more than 30 years she has been on the front line defending fundamental freedoms and fair access to justice, often at risk to her own safety.

Unwavering commitment to human rights

In an environment marked by oppression and injustice, she has become a force of resistance against human rights abuses. She co-initiated the prosecution of former dictator Hissène Habré, a historic trial that ended in his conviction for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Determined to build the rule of law, she founded the Public Interest Law Center (PILC), which provides free legal aid to vulnerable people, especially women and children. More than 220 volunteer paralegals have been trained in 14 regions, helping thousands of citizens learn their rights and claim them peacefully.

For women’s rights and social justice

A leading figure in the women’s rights movement, she fights gender-based violence and works for women’s education, empowerment and participation in political and economic life.

For ethical management of natural resources

She played a crucial role in challenging abuses linked to the Chad-Cameroon oil and pipeline project, pressing oil companies and the World Bank to ensure oil revenue benefited local communities more fairly.

International recognition

• 2023: Martin Ennals Award for Human Rights Defenders;
• 2018: Franco-German Prize for Human Rights and the Rule of Law;
• 2014: Officer of France’s National Order of Merit;
• 2004: Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award.

A founding member and first president of the Chadian Association for the Promotion and Defence of Human Rights (ATPDH), she is also on the list of counsel at the International Criminal Court. Nicknamed “the quiet force” by her peers, she remains an inspiration for a whole generation of activists.