Concept Note: Commemoration of the 45th Anniversary of the Adoption of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights

ACHPR African Commission on

Human Rights our Collective Responsibility

Concept Note: Commemoration of the 45th Anniversary of the Adoption of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights

Theme: "45 Years of the African Charter: Celebrating Africa's Human Rights Journey, Legacy, and Future"

1. Background

The year 2026 marks the 45th anniversary of the adoption of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, one of Africa's most significant human rights instruments. Adopted on 27 June 1981 in Nairobi, Kenya, by the then Organization of African Unity, the Charter laid the foundation for the promotion and protection of human and peoples' rights across the continent.

Over the last four and a half decades, the Charter has guided the work of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights and contributed significantly to the advancement of democracy, justice, accountability, equality, and human dignity in Africa.

This commemorative event seeks to reflect on the historical journey leading to the drafting and adoption of the Charter, celebrate the vision and contribution of its drafters and past Commissioners, highlight major milestones in the implementation of the Charter, and inspire renewed commitment to human rights protection in Africa.

2. Purpose of the Event

The event aims to commemorate and celebrate 45 years of the African Charter while recognizing the individuals and institutions that have shaped Africa's human rights system.

3. Objectives

The specific objectives of the event are to:

• Celebrate the 45th anniversary of the adoption of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.
• Reflect on the historical context and events that led to the drafting and adoption of the Charter in 1981.
• Honour the drafters of the Charter and acknowledge the contribution of all Commissioners who have served on the African Commission to date.
• Showcase key milestones, landmark developments, and important dates related to the Charter and the African human rights system.
• Promote awareness and appreciation of the Charter among stakeholders and the public.
• Use culture, music, and dance to celebrate African unity, identity, and human dignity.

4. Expected Participants

The event is expected to bring together:

• Commissioners and former Commissioners of the African Commission

• • Representatives of the African Union
• • Government representatives
• • National Human Rights Institutions
• • Civil society organizations
• • Members of the diplomatic corps
• • Development partners
• • Academia and students
• • Media representatives

5. Date and Time

Date: 11 May 2026

Time: 12:00 – 13:30 hrs - Duration: 1 Hour 30 Minutes

6. Proposed Agenda / Programme Proceedings