The 75th Ordinary Session deliberated on trending human rights issues especially matters arising particularly in Africa.
During the session, the Commission held panels on the protection of the socio-economic rights of refugees and migrants at the national level; increasing awareness of the guidelines of freedom of association and assembly in Africa; awareness in support of the treaty against trade of instruments of torture; special rapporteur on prisons and places of detention in Africa, African Union theme of the year for 2023 “Acceleration of AfCFTA Implementation”, leveraging data for meaningful progress towards economic, social and cultural rights; state reporting and official launch of the guidelines on adhering to human and peoples’ plights under the African Charter in the Context of States of Emergency or Disaster.
Dawda A. Jallow, Attorney General and Minister for Justice of The Gambia said he hopes Members States will pay greater attention to their commitment towards the promotion of human rights in the continent.
Jallow added that ACHPR is dedicated to ensuring the rights of people are respected and protected as well as seeing a continent free from rights violations and abuse.
He highlighted that NGOs and CSOs working on human rights matters should not be deterred, targeted or intimidated by state agents, individuals and/or private organisations.
He stated that as a Government that has experienced brutal dictatorship and massive human rights violations, it stands in solidarity with the ACHPR in promoting fundamental human rights.
He called on the African Union, its Member States, ACHPR and other stakeholders to stand firm in addressing human right violations in the continent.
He stated that it is his hope that the Commission will take rigorous action to assist in settling the conflict in Sudan and other states in the continent.
“As patriotic Africans, we will take the future of Africa in our own hands and strive for a united Africa that is peaceful, resilient and true to its cause and also ensure the enjoyment of human rights of every person,” he concluded
