The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights [2-volume set]

A landmark study of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights, positioning it within the African Lives Matter struggle to assert an African identity, reveals its African origins and the influence of the OAU on its path and content.

Format: Mixed media product
Length: 1312 pages
Publication date: 17 October 2023
Publisher: James Currey

A groundbreaking exploration of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, a pivotal document in modern African history, emerges as a powerful testament to the African Lives Matter movement's unwavering pursuit of asserting an African identity, transcending its mere status as a human rights instrument. This comprehensive study delves into the profound African roots that shaped the Charter's development, highlighting the profound influence of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) principles on its trajectory and content.

The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, a seminal document in contemporary African history, assumes a pivotal role in the African Lives Matter movement's relentless quest to establish an African identity, surpassing its mere portrayal as a human rights instrument. This comprehensive examination delves into the profound African origins that nurtured the Charter's formation, emphasizing the profound impact of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) principles on its trajectory and content.

The Charter's genesis can be traced back to the early 1960s, during a period of political and social upheaval in Africa. Recognizing the need for a unified and comprehensive legal framework to protect and promote human rights on the continent, the OAU embarked on a mission to draft a charter that would encapsulate the fundamental principles of human dignity, equality, and freedom.

The Charter's development process was marked by a collaborative effort involving African governments, regional organizations, and civil society groups. The OAU's principles, which emphasized the promotion of social justice, economic development, and cultural diversity, served as the guiding framework for the Charter's content.

One of the key achievements of the Charter is its recognition of the inherent diversity of the African continent and its commitment to promoting the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or political affiliation. The Charter explicitly condemns discrimination, violence, and human rights violations and provides a framework for the protection and promotion of these rights.

Furthermore, the Charter emphasizes the importance of national and regional institutions in the protection and promotion of human rights. It calls for the establishment of independent human rights institutions, the promotion of legal frameworks that uphold human rights, and the strengthening of the capacity of these institutions to effectively address human rights challenges.

The Charter's impact on African societies has been profound. It has served as a catalyst for the promotion of human rights, the empowerment of marginalized communities, and the development of a more inclusive and democratic society. The Charter has been instrumental in the fight against colonialism, apartheid, and other forms of oppression and has played a significant role in the promotion of peace and stability in the continent.

In conclusion, the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights is a landmark study that provides a comprehensive understanding of the Charter's origins, principles, and impact on modern African history. It serves as a testament to the African Lives Matter movement's unwavering commitment to asserting an African identity and to the broader struggle for social justice, equality, and human rights on the continent. The Charter's enduring legacy continues to inspire and guide individuals and organizations in their pursuit of a more inclusive and equitable Africa.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781847013804