The Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD) recently organized a major consultation on the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) guidelines on freedom of association and assembly. This event, held from August 28 to 30, 2023 in Lomé, Togo, brought together various civil society organizations (CSOs) with the aim of improving their advocacy and action skills in this crucial area.
Freedom of association and assembly is a fundamental right enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Yet many CSOs face challenges when it comes to promoting and defending this right. That’s why the RFLD has taken the initiative of bringing these organizations together to strengthen their skills and provide them with the tools they need to advance this cause.
Thanks to generous funding from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), the RFLD was able to organize this consultation effectively. The event was a resounding success, bringing together representatives of CSOs involved in various fields, from the protection of human rights to the promotion of democracy and economic and social development. Consultation participants had the opportunity to examine in detail the ACHPR’s guidelines on freedom of association and assembly, discuss best practices in advocacy and share experiences. Training sessions and practical workshops enabled participants to acquire new skills and strengthen their networks.
The RFLD team, led by seasoned experts and professionals such as John GBENAGNON, Human Rights Administrator, and Marlène SAGBOHAN, Director of Policy, played a key role in the success of this event. Their dedication to the cause of human rights and civil society was praised by all participants. In conclusion, the consultation organized by the RFLD on freedom of association and assembly was an important milestone in the promotion of this fundamental right in Africa. It has strengthened the capacities of CSOs and reinforced their commitment to the defense of human rights. We are confident that these efforts will bear fruit in the near future, contributing to a freer, more democratic African continent that respects human rights.
