AU IPED

Statement by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on the Occasion of African Human Rights Day. On the occasion of African Human Rights Day, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, @ymahmoudali reaffirms the African Union’s commitment to the values of human dignity, justice, equality and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, in accordance with the principles enshrined in African Union instruments. This year holds particular significance as it marks the 40th anniversary of the entry into force of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, an essential pillar of Africa’s human rights architecture. The Chairperson commends the progress achieved over the past four decades through the joint efforts of Member States, African institutions and all stakeholders. He highlights the richness of the Charter’s vision, which strikes a balance between individual rights, peoples’ rights and duties towards the community. The Chairperson pays tribute to the valuable contribution of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. He underscores the importance of sustaining and strengthening cooperation between Member States and these institutions, in accordance with their respective mandates, to consolidate achievements and promote the effective implementation of African human rights instruments. Against a continental backdrop of diverse dynamics and challenges, the Chairperson recalls that peace, stability, democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights are mutually reinforcing. He encourages continued collective efforts to protect populations, ensure access to justice, promote equality and improve living conditions for all Africans, including through the progressive realisation of economic, social and cultural rights. The Chairperson reaffirms the African Union’s commitment to supporting Member States and African institutions in promoting and protecting human rights, in line with the aspirations of Agenda 2063: “The Africa We Want”. Forty years after the Charter’s entry into force, this commemoration offers a valuable opportunity to renew our collective commitment, recognise the progress achieved and strengthen our cooperation so that the principles and rights it enshrines contribute ever more fully to the well-being, dignity and fulfilment of all African peoples. Read @ au.int/en/pressreleases/2026…