Dr. Momodou Tangara, Minister of Foreign Affairs
By Buba Gagigo
The Gambia has secured a second term on the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) for the period of 2025–2027, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad announced. The re-election took place on October 9, 2024, in New York, with The Gambia receiving 181 out of 190 valid votes cast.
The Human Rights Council, headquartered in Geneva, is an intergovernmental body within the UN system, comprising 47 states elected by the General Assembly. Its primary role is to promote and protect human rights globally.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad is pleased to announce the re-election of the Republic of The Gambia to the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) for the 2025–2027 term at elections held in New York on October 9, 2024. Out of 190 valid votes cast, The Gambia received 181 votes. This follows the successful completion of our first term from 2022-2024,”
The Ministry highlighted The Gambia’s active role in advancing human rights issues at the Council, noting its two consecutive terms as Vice-President and its position as Coordinator of the Africa Group in 2024.
“From advocating for peace, climate justice, digital inclusivity, anti-racial discrimination, and the rights of women, children, persons with disabilities, and youths, The Gambia has remained steadfast in its dedication to advancing justice and protecting vulnerable groups and populations,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry said.
As Vice-President, The Gambia has overseen Council sessions and ensured the concerns of the African continent are reflected in key decisions made by the HRC.
“This re-election therefore underscores The Gambia’s ongoing commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights domestically and internationally and reflects the confidence the international community places in The Gambia to work towards a more equitable and just international order. It also presents a fresh opportunity and a profound responsibility for The Gambia to continue collaborating with the global community on pressing human rights issues,” the Ministry concluded.