The two countries have maintained diplomatic relations since Chad gained political independence in 1960. Germany’s engagement in Chad follows an integrated approach combining foreign, development and security policy. Germany has monitored the political transition in Chad, which is now formally complete following the presidential elections held on 6 May 2024 and the elections for the bicameral legislature (National Assembly election on 29 December 2024 and Senate election on 25 February 2025).

Limited resources in the semi-arid and arid parts of the country, which are being increasingly impacted by climate change, necessitate the provision of humanitarian assistance to Chad. The war in the Sudan is leading to additional refugee flows and humanitarian needs. As of February 2025, over one million people had fled to Chad from the Sudan while humanitarian needs persist in the Lake Chad region.

Germany is supporting the population via aid organisations such as the United Nations World Food Programme, UNHCR, UNICEF and the International Committee of the Red Cross. The focus is on food security, the provision of water and healthcare and humanitarian protective measures (especially for women and children).

Regional stabilisation projects place a particular emphasis on the Lake Chad region. The stabilisation concept is based on strengthening civil-military coordination and cooperation between the neighbouring countries and the international community. The aim is to establish a positive state presence in conflict zones, providing security and services for the local population, and to contain terrorist threats, to strengthen civil society and expand capacities for the protection of women and girls.

In the field of development cooperation, Germany provides bilateral support for Chad through regional projects, transitional development assistance and the special initiative Displaced Persons and Host Countries. The focus is on strengthening resilience, increasing food security and access to energy, and improving the livelihoods of both the local population and those who have fled to or been displaced in Chad.