BAMRO at the 89th African Human Rights Session – Day 3

14 October 2026 | Dakar, Senegal

The 89th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) continues for its third consecutive day in Dakar, Senegal, with the participation of government representatives, national institutions, and human rights organizations, including our Belgian Association for Human Rights and Development (BAMRO).

The first two days featured important statements and discussions, alongside the consideration of organizational matters, including elections and appointments within the Commission’s bodies.

Key Issues Discussed

1. Protection of Civilians in Conflict Zones

The Chairperson of the African Commission, Dr. Idrissa Sow, emphasized the importance of dialogue and civilian protection, warning of the humanitarian consequences of ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, and Somalia.

2. Situation in Eastern Congo

Congolese Minister of Human Rights Samuel Mbemba highlighted human rights violations and the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in eastern Congo, calling for stronger African action to protect civilians.

3. Conflict-Related Sexual Violence

Side meetings held on 13 October called for stronger efforts to combat impunity and enhance protection for survivors of sexual violence, including children born as a result of such violence in conflict-affected areas.

4. Protection of Human Rights Defenders

One of the sessions addressed the challenges facing human rights defenders and explored measures to strengthen their safety and protection.

5. Women's Rights and Digital Violence

Parallel events focused on technology-facilitated gender-based violence and its impact on women's participation in public and political life.

6. Elections and Appointments

The session's agenda also included elections and appointments within the Commission's various bodies and mechanisms, distinguishing between officially adopted decisions and matters still under consideration.

40th Anniversary of the African Charter

This session coincides with the 40th anniversary of the entry into force of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, providing an important opportunity to assess progress and ongoing challenges in protecting human rights across Africa.

BAMRO's Continued Participation

Our Belgian Association for Human Rights and Development (BAMRO) continues to follow the Commission's proceedings and participate in its activities.

This participation reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting and protecting human rights, strengthening cooperation between African and European human rights institutions, and supporting international efforts to safeguard fundamental rights and freedoms.

Location: Dakar, Senegal