African Commission NGO Forum & 85th Ordinary Session Alert

Oct 7, 2025 by Omar Yusuf 59 views

Meta: Stay informed about the African Commission NGO Forum and the 85th Ordinary Session. Key insights and updates inside.

Introduction

The African Commission NGO Forum and its associated Ordinary Sessions are crucial events for human rights advocacy and awareness in Africa. These gatherings provide platforms for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), state representatives, and other stakeholders to engage in dialogue, share information, and develop strategies to address human rights challenges across the continent. Understanding the significance of these events, their objectives, and the mechanisms for participation is essential for anyone involved in or interested in human rights work in Africa.

The African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR) holds Ordinary Sessions twice a year. These sessions are a key part of the commission's mandate to promote and protect human rights in Africa. The NGO Forum typically precedes these sessions, allowing civil society organizations to convene, discuss pressing issues, and develop recommendations for the Commission. This pre-session forum is vital for ensuring that the voices of grassroots organizations and affected communities are heard.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the African Commission NGO Forum and the 85th Ordinary Session, highlighting their importance, key topics discussed, and how individuals and organizations can engage with these processes. We'll explore the roles of various stakeholders, the challenges faced, and the opportunities for advancing human rights on the continent.

Understanding the African Commission NGO Forum

The African Commission NGO Forum serves as a vital pre-session event, providing a platform for NGOs to strategize and influence the African Commission's agenda. This forum is not just a gathering; it's a dynamic space where civil society organizations from across the continent come together to share their experiences, analyze trends, and formulate recommendations for the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR).

One of the primary objectives of the NGO Forum is to enhance the participation of civil society in the work of the ACHPR. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the forum ensures that the Commission is informed about the realities on the ground. This includes issues ranging from freedom of expression and assembly to economic, social, and cultural rights. The forum also provides an opportunity for NGOs to build networks, strengthen collaborations, and amplify their impact.

Key Activities and Objectives

Information Sharing: The forum facilitates the exchange of information on human rights challenges and best practices across different African countries.
Strategy Development: NGOs work collaboratively to develop strategies for addressing specific human rights issues and influencing the ACHPR's agenda.
Capacity Building: Workshops and training sessions are often organized to enhance the capacity of NGOs to engage with the ACHPR and other human rights mechanisms.
Advocacy Planning: The forum provides a space for NGOs to plan joint advocacy initiatives and coordinate their efforts.

The format of the NGO Forum typically includes plenary sessions, workshops, thematic discussions, and side events. Plenary sessions provide a platform for keynote speakers and panelists to address key human rights issues. Workshops offer opportunities for in-depth discussions and skills-building. Thematic discussions focus on specific areas of concern, such as women's rights, children's rights, or the rights of persons with disabilities. Side events allow NGOs to showcase their work and raise awareness about specific issues.

Participation and Engagement

To participate in the African Commission NGO Forum, organizations typically need to register in advance and meet certain criteria. The ACHPR often publishes a call for participation, outlining the requirements and deadlines for registration. NGOs that are accredited with the ACHPR are given priority, but other organizations may also be eligible to participate. Individual human rights defenders, researchers, and activists are also often welcome to attend.

Pro Tip: Check the ACHPR website regularly for announcements about upcoming NGO Forums and Ordinary Sessions. Early registration is often essential to secure your spot and participate fully in the events.

Delving into the 85th Ordinary Session of the African Commission

The 85th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR) is a critical event where the commission addresses human rights issues across the African continent. These sessions are held twice a year and are a cornerstone of the ACHPR's mandate to promote and protect human rights in Africa. The sessions bring together Commissioners, State representatives, NGOs, and other stakeholders to discuss pressing human rights concerns, review state reports, and consider communications (complaints) alleging human rights violations.

The ACHPR's Ordinary Sessions are essential for several reasons. They provide a platform for the Commission to engage directly with State parties on their human rights obligations. During these sessions, States are required to submit periodic reports detailing their efforts to implement the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights. The Commission reviews these reports, raises questions, and makes recommendations to States on how to improve their human rights record.

Key Functions and Processes

State Reporting: States present reports on their human rights situation and efforts to comply with the African Charter.
Consideration of Communications: The Commission examines individual and group complaints alleging human rights violations.
Adoption of Resolutions: The Commission adopts resolutions on specific human rights issues and thematic areas.
Public Hearings: The Commission holds public hearings to gather information and hear from stakeholders.
Special Procedures: Commissioners undertake fact-finding missions and engage in other special procedures to address human rights concerns.

During the 85th Ordinary Session, several key issues are likely to be discussed. These may include the human rights situation in specific countries, thematic issues such as freedom of expression, the rights of women and children, and the protection of human rights defenders. The Commission may also consider reports from its special mechanisms, such as Special Rapporteurs and Working Groups, on various human rights issues.

Participation and Observation

The 85th Ordinary Session is open to observers, including NGOs, National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs), and international organizations. Observers can attend public sessions, participate in side events, and engage with Commissioners and other stakeholders. Accredited NGOs have the opportunity to make oral interventions during the sessions, highlighting human rights concerns and making recommendations to the Commission.

To observe the 85th Ordinary Session, organizations and individuals typically need to register in advance and obtain accreditation. The ACHPR publishes information on its website about the registration process and deadlines. Observer status allows participants to stay informed about the Commission's work, network with other human rights actors, and contribute to the discussions and advocacy efforts.

Key Issues Addressed at the Forum and Ordinary Session

Both the African Commission NGO Forum and the 85th Ordinary Session address a wide array of human rights concerns, reflecting the diverse challenges faced across the African continent. Understanding these key issues is crucial for anyone seeking to engage in human rights advocacy and policy-making in Africa.

Several overarching themes typically dominate the discussions at these events. One prominent area is civil and political rights, which encompass issues such as freedom of expression, assembly, and association; the right to a fair trial; and protection against arbitrary arrest and detention. These rights are fundamental to democratic governance and the rule of law, and their protection is essential for ensuring that individuals can participate fully in public life.

Another key area of focus is economic, social, and cultural rights, which include the right to health, education, housing, and an adequate standard of living. These rights are crucial for promoting social justice and equality, and their realization is essential for ensuring that all individuals can live with dignity. The ACHPR has increasingly emphasized the importance of these rights, recognizing that they are integral to overall human well-being.

Specific Issues and Challenges

Freedom of Expression and Media Freedom: Concerns about restrictions on media freedom, the safety of journalists, and the use of laws to silence dissent are frequently raised.
Rights of Women and Girls: Issues such as gender-based violence, discrimination, and access to education and healthcare remain critical challenges.
Rights of Persons with Disabilities: The protection of the rights of persons with disabilities, including access to education, employment, and healthcare, is an ongoing concern.
Human Rights Defenders: The safety and protection of human rights defenders, who often face threats and attacks for their work, are a recurring theme.
Transitional Justice: Addressing past human rights violations and promoting reconciliation in post-conflict settings is a significant area of focus.

Watch out: When engaging in human rights advocacy, it's essential to be aware of the specific legal and political context in each country. Laws and policies can vary significantly, and a nuanced understanding is crucial for effective advocacy.

In addition to these overarching themes, specific country situations often receive attention during the NGO Forum and Ordinary Session. NGOs and human rights defenders from particular countries may present information about human rights violations and advocate for action by the ACHPR. The Commission may issue resolutions or statements on these situations, calling on States to take steps to address human rights concerns.

How to Engage and Contribute

Engaging with the African Commission NGO Forum and the 85th Ordinary Session offers numerous avenues for individuals and organizations to contribute to human rights advancement in Africa. Whether you are an NGO representative, a human rights defender, a researcher, or simply an interested individual, there are various ways to get involved and make a difference.

For NGOs, active participation in the NGO Forum is a crucial step. This involves attending the forum, participating in discussions, presenting information about human rights concerns, and collaborating with other organizations. The forum provides a unique opportunity to network, share best practices, and develop joint advocacy strategies. NGOs can also use the forum to raise awareness about their work and build partnerships with other stakeholders.

Practical Steps for Engagement

Attend the NGO Forum: Register for and attend the African Commission NGO Forum to participate in discussions and network with other organizations.
Submit Information: Provide information to the ACHPR about human rights violations and concerns in specific countries or thematic areas.
Make Oral Interventions: If accredited, make oral interventions during the Ordinary Session to highlight key issues and make recommendations.
Monitor the Sessions: Follow the proceedings of the Ordinary Session and stay informed about the Commission's decisions and resolutions.
Advocate for Implementation: Advocate for the implementation of the ACHPR's recommendations and resolutions at the national level.

Individuals can also contribute to the work of the ACHPR in various ways. This includes following the Commission's activities online, attending public sessions of the Ordinary Session, and supporting the work of NGOs and human rights defenders. Researchers can contribute by conducting studies on human rights issues and providing evidence-based analysis to inform the Commission's work.

Leveraging Technology and Social Media

Follow the ACHPR on social media: Stay updated on the Commission's activities and announcements by following its official social media accounts.
Use social media to amplify messages: Share information about human rights concerns and advocate for action by tagging relevant stakeholders and using appropriate hashtags.
Participate in online discussions: Engage in online discussions and debates about human rights issues related to the ACHPR's work.

Pro Tip: Building strong relationships with Commissioners and other stakeholders is essential for effective engagement. Attend side events, network during breaks, and follow up with individuals after the sessions to build rapport and foster collaboration.

Conclusion

The African Commission NGO Forum and the 85th Ordinary Session are vital platforms for advancing human rights in Africa. By understanding the objectives, processes, and key issues discussed at these events, individuals and organizations can effectively engage and contribute to the protection and promotion of human rights across the continent. The collaborative efforts of NGOs, State representatives, and the African Commission itself are essential for addressing the complex human rights challenges facing Africa today. To take the next step, consider exploring the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights website for more information on upcoming events, accreditation procedures, and how to submit communications.

Optional FAQ

What is the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights?

The African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR) is a quasi-judicial body established by the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights. Its mandate is to promote and protect human rights in Africa. The ACHPR monitors the human rights situation in African countries, investigates allegations of human rights violations, and makes recommendations to States on how to improve their human rights record. It plays a crucial role in ensuring accountability and fostering a culture of respect for human rights across the continent.

How can my NGO get accredited with the ACHPR?

To get accredited with the ACHPR, NGOs need to submit an application demonstrating that they meet certain criteria. These criteria typically include having a clear mandate to promote and protect human rights, being legally registered in an African country, and having a track record of working on human rights issues. The ACHPR reviews applications and grants observer status to NGOs that meet the requirements. Accreditation allows NGOs to participate more fully in the work of the ACHPR, including attending Ordinary Sessions and making oral interventions.

What are State Reports, and why are they important?

State Reports are periodic reports that States parties to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights are required to submit to the ACHPR. These reports detail the steps that States have taken to implement the Charter and protect human rights within their borders. The reports provide valuable information about the human rights situation in each country and allow the ACHPR to assess States' compliance with their obligations. The review of State Reports is a key function of the ACHPR and an important mechanism for promoting accountability.