The African Union Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting human rights, promoting justice and equality, and upholding human dignity as Africa marks African Human Rights Day and the 40th anniversary of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
In a statement marking the occasion, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, reiterated the African Union’s commitment to the values of human dignity, justice, equality and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, in accordance with the principles enshrined in African Union instruments.
The anniversary marks four decades since the entry into force of the African Charter, a key instrument guiding the promotion and protection of human rights across the continent.
AU Recognises Four Decades of Human Rights Progress
Youssouf commended the progress made over the past 40 years through the joint efforts of African Union Member States, African institutions and other stakeholders.
He highlighted the Charter’s approach to human rights, which balances individual rights, peoples’ rights and duties towards the community.
According to the Chairperson, the anniversary provides an opportunity to recognise the achievements recorded since the Charter came into force and renew collective efforts to strengthen human rights protection across Africa.
AU Highlights Role of Regional Human Rights Institutions
The Chairperson also recognised the contributions of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
He stressed the need to sustain and strengthen cooperation between Member States and these institutions, in line with their respective mandates, to consolidate existing gains and promote the effective implementation of African human rights instruments.
The statement noted that continued collaboration among governments and regional institutions remains important to advancing human rights standards and ensuring that commitments translate into meaningful action.
Peace, Democracy and Human Rights Must Go Together
Addressing the continent’s diverse challenges, Youssouf emphasised the relationship between peace, stability, democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights.
He encouraged continued collective efforts to protect populations, improve access to justice, promote equality and improve living conditions for all Africans.
The Chairperson also highlighted the importance of progressively realising economic, social and cultural rights as part of broader efforts to improve the well-being of people across the continent.
AU Reaffirms Commitment to Agenda 2063
Youssouf reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to supporting Member States and African institutions in promoting and protecting human rights, in line with the aspirations of Agenda 2063: “The Africa We Want.”
He said the 40th anniversary of the Charter offers an opportunity for African countries to renew their shared commitment, recognise progress made and strengthen cooperation to ensure that the rights and principles enshrined in the document contribute more fully to the dignity, well-being and fulfilment of African peoples.
The commemoration comes as the African Union continues to advance its continental vision of a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous Africa, where human rights are respected and protected.
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