ACHPR 85: Combating Terrorism with Justice, Transparency, and Respect for Human Rights
States have the primary responsibility to protect the rights of peoples, particularly civilians affected by conflict. Yet, in their efforts to combat terrorism, many states implement legislative and institutional measures that may impact human rights.
Concerned by the growing number of unresolved cases, the NGO Forum held before the 85th session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights examined ways to tackle impunity for human rights violations across Africa.
Human Rights Concerns Raised by BENELUX States
Earlier this month, Belgium, representing the BENELUX States, highlighted several instances of reprisals during an interactive dialogue with Ilze Brands Kehris, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights and head of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, at the Third Committee.
Role of the NGO Forum
The NGO Forum of the African Commission shared comprehensive documentation on the human rights situation in Africa. It enabled sub-regional focal points to provide concise overviews of the conditions faced by human rights defenders on the continent.
Concerned about the increasing numbers of unresolved cases, the NGO Forum held ahead of the 85th session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights looked at ways to address impunity for human rights violations in Africa.
Earlier this month, Belgium, on behalf of the BENELUX States, raised a number of cases of reprisals during an interactive dialogue at the Third Committee before the Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights and head of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ilze Brands Kehris.
Author's summary: The 85th ACHPR session emphasized the urgent need for justice and transparency in counter-terrorism efforts to uphold human rights and address impunity in Africa.