10 December 2025, Banjul, The Gambia – Today, as the world marks International Human Rights Day, the African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS) joins partners, defenders, and communities across the globe in reaffirming our collective commitment to the inherent dignity and equal rights of all members of the human family. This year’s commemoration once again reminds us of the enduring relevance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations, and its promise of freedom, justice, and peace for everyone, everywhere.
Across Africa, courageous human rights defenders, civil society actors, and community leaders continue to uphold universal values, often at great personal risk. Their resilience strengthens democratic governance, advances gender equality, promotes justice, and protects the most vulnerable among us. ACDHRS celebrates their contributions and stands in unwavering solidarity with all those striving to make human rights a lived reality on our continent.
As part of its long-standing commitment to strengthening human rights across the region, ACDHRS convenes the annual NGOs Forum ahead of the Ordinary Sessions of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, providing a vital platform for civil society to coordinate advocacy, share strategies, and amplify grassroots voices. In addition, the Centre conducts regular human rights trainings through which defenders engage deeply on emerging and persistent human rights issues affecting the continent, building the knowledge, solidarity, and capacity needed to drive meaningful change.
Yet, we remain deeply concerned by persistent challenges: shrinking civic space, threats to journalists, discrimination against women and marginalized groups, unconstitutional changes of government, and ongoing conflict and displacement. These realities call for renewed vigilance and a reinvigorated commitment to the principles that bind us together.
On this day, ACDHRS:
- Reaffirms its dedication to promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across Africa;
- Calls upon States to uphold their obligations, protect fundamental freedoms, and ensure accountability for violations;
- Urges regional and international partners, including National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs), to strengthen support for civil society and human rights defenders;
- Encourages African citizens, especially youth, to engage actively in shaping inclusive, just, and peaceful societies.
As we look ahead, ACDHRS remains steadfast in its mission: to create a continent where every individual enjoys their rights without fear, where democratic institutions are strong and accountable, and where justice and equality guide our collective future.
Let us all recommit, today and every day, to defending and advancing the human rights of all.
The End.
