The ISHR’s intervention at the 81st Ordinary Session of the African Commission addressed significant threats to human rights defenders across Africa, highlighting situations in Burkina Faso, Mauritius, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They called for government accountability and legal protections for these advocates, stressing the need for transparency from the Commission and recognizing positive developments in the Republic of the Congo.
On October 21st, during the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights 81st Ordinary Session, the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) addressed ongoing human rights issues in Africa. They spotlighted various challenges confronting human rights defenders, particularly in Burkina Faso, Mauritius, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. ISHR urged all governments to enhance protections for these defenders amid rising threats and violence. In Burkina Faso, ISHR raised concerns over the compulsory enlistment of human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society members into the military, which has escalated fears for their safety. The organization also condemned the forced disappearances of activists, drawing attention to the ongoing plight of missing figures such as Serge Oulon and Adama Bayala. They called for the cessation of such violations by the Burkinabè government. Turning to Mauritius, ISHR expressed alarm at the risks LGBTQI human rights defenders continue to face, despite the decriminalization of homosexuality. The organization highlighted instances of violent threats and urged the Mauritian government to protect these activists and combat violations against them. The need for effective legal action against offenders was emphasized. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, ISHR noted that the implementation of the law protecting human rights defenders remained problematic, with significant restrictions on civil society. Particularly alarming was the government’s intention to prosecute LGBTQI individuals, exacerbating risks for defenders. ISHR called for greater freedom of association and full enforcement of protective laws for human rights advocates. Additionally, ISHR urged the African Commission to improve transparency and accessibility in its processes, advocating for a progressive interpretation of Article 59 of the African Charter to benefit civil society’s understanding of the Commission’s workings. They applauded progress in the Republic of the Congo, where new laws intended to protect human rights defenders are advancing due to civil society efforts.
The discourse surrounding human rights in Africa is marked by significant challenges, especially for those who advocate for human rights. The International Service for Human Rights (ISHR), a prominent organization focused on these issues, provides insights into the current climate for human rights defenders. Their presentations during significant forums, such as the African Commission, shine a spotlight on the pressing need for more robust protections and proactive measures across the continent, given the existing risks and violations individuals face in their advocacy efforts.
In summary, ISHR’s statements at the African Commission reveal alarming trends impacting human rights defenders in Africa, with specific instances in Burkina Faso, Mauritius, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo illustrating the urgent need for government action. The rallying cry for stronger legal protections and greater transparency from the African Commission underscores the collective responsibility to safeguard those who stand up for human rights. Such advancements in places like the Republic of the Congo highlight the vital role of civil society in pushing for legislative progress.
Original Source: ishr.ch
