AbdulRehman Foundation

The African Human Rights Framework refers to a collection of regional instruments, treaties, and mechanisms that aim to protect and promote human rights across the African continent. These instruments and mechanisms are designed to complement and reinforce the universal human rights standards set out in international treaties such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Key elements of the African Human Rights Framework include:

1. African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR): The ACHPR, also known as the Banjul Charter, is the principal human rights instrument in Africa. It was adopted by the Organization of African Unity (now the African Union) in 1981 and entered into force in 1986. The charter guarantees civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights, as well as the collective rights of African peoples.
2. African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR): The ACHPR is a continental human rights body established under the ACHPR. It is composed of 11 independent experts elected by the African Union Assembly. The commission promotes and protects human rights through various activities, including conducting country visits, receiving individual and state communications, and issuing recommendations.
3. African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights: The African Court is a regional court established by the Protocol to the ACHPR. It has jurisdiction to hear cases on alleged human rights violations committed by states that have ratified the protocol, as well as advisory opinions. Individuals and non-governmental organizations with observer status before the African Commission can also bring cases before the court.
4. Protocol to the African Charter on the Rights of Women in Africa: This protocol, also known as the Maputo Protocol, is a specific instrument that focuses on the rights of women in Africa. It was adopted in 2003 and entered into force in 2005. The protocol elaborates on women’s rights and addresses various issues, including violence against women, harmful practices, political participation, and economic rights.
5. African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM): The APRM is a voluntary self-assessment and monitoring tool adopted by the African Union. It aims to foster good governance, democracy, and socio-economic development among African Union member states. The mechanism involves a comprehensive review of participating countries’ political, economic, corporate, and socio-economic governance.

These instruments and mechanisms form the foundation of the African Human Rights Framework and provide a framework for promoting and protecting human rights across the continent. They play a crucial role in ensuring accountability, upholding the rule of law, and advancing human dignity in Africa.

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