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Access to legal aid services

Legal aid is an essential component of any fair, humane, effective criminal justice based on legality. It is the foundation for the enjoyment of other rights, including the right to a fair trial, and an important guarantee of fundamental fairness and public confidence in criminal justice.

The Union of the Comoros is a State of law where the Constitution guarantees legal equality to all citizens. The country has internal legislation that reinforces this principle of equality through the Family Code, the Penal Code among others. The objective targeted through these texts is to guarantee, without distinction of origin, religion, race and sex, the rights of individuals and, in particular, those of vulnerable people, including women, to whom it wishes to ensure protection. legal within the family and society.

Currently, access to legal aid services is provided by various organizations such as:

The National Commission for Human Rights and Freedoms (CNDHL):

The National Commission for Human Rights and Freedoms (CNDHL) is a public institution of the Union of the Comoros created under Law No. 11-028/AU of December 23, 2011, promulgated by Decree No. 12- 042/PR of February 18, 2012.

The main activities of the CNDHL consist of:

  • Promote human rights through education, training and awareness;
  • Protect human rights by providing assistance, advice and guidance to victims of violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms on the one hand and on the other hand, by influencing the ratification of international legal instruments;
  • Participate in the development of laws, projects and programs relating to human rights;
  • Defend human rights through denunciation, alert and publication of reports.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and associations

National NGOs and associations ensure awareness of rights and comprehensive support for victims in police and legal proceedings.