The African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS) is a pan-African non-governmental organization dedicated to the promotion and protection of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across the African continent. Established in 1989 and headquartered in Banjul, The Gambia, ACDHRS has for over three decades served as a vital bridge between civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and the African human rights system.
ACDHRS holds observer status with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) and has played a significant role in strengthening civil society engagement with the Commission. One of the Centre’s flagship contributions is its coordination of the Civil Society Forum, commonly known as the NGO Forum, which takes place ahead of every Ordinary Session of the ACHPR. The Forum provides a critical platform for African civil society actors to assess the human rights situation on the continent, share experiences, and develop common advocacy strategies. Outcomes of the Forum, including resolutions and statements, are formally presented to the African Commission, ensuring that civil society voices inform continental human rights deliberations.
Capacity building remains at the core of ACDHRS’ work. The Centre regularly organizes regional and national trainings aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of civil society organizations, journalists, and human rights defenders. These trainings focus on effective engagement with the African human rights mechanisms, strategic advocacy, documentation and reporting of human rights violations, and emerging issues such as climate justice, civic space, digital rights, and gender equality. Through these initiatives, ACDHRS empowers actors at grassroots, national, and regional levels to participate meaningfully in human rights promotion and protection.
ACDHRS is also actively engaged in research, documentation, and information dissemination. The Centre produces reports, policy briefs, statements, and educational materials on key human rights and democratic governance issues in Africa. Through its communication platforms, including its website, social media channels, and newsletters, ACDHRS amplifies human rights concerns, highlights the work of defenders, and promotes awareness of African human rights instruments such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the Maputo Protocol, and other regional frameworks.
In response to evolving challenges on the continent, ACDHRS has expanded its thematic focus to include climate change and environmental rights, sexual and reproductive health and rights, protection of vulnerable and marginalized groups, and the safety of journalists and human rights defenders. The Centre collaborates closely with national, regional, and international partners, including civil society networks, development partners, and academic institutions, to promote inclusive and sustainable approaches to human rights advancement.
Through its consistent engagement, convening power, and commitment to African-led solutions, ACDHRS continues to play a pivotal role in shaping human rights discourse and practice in Africa. By strengthening civil society voices and promoting accountability within the African human rights system, the Centre remains steadfast in its mission to advance democracy, human dignity, and social justice across the continent.
