By Peter Quaqua (former president, West African Journalists Association)
Over the past few days in Dakar, I have had the privilege of joining a small but deeply committed group of experts, practitioners, and advocates working to shape something that could become truly transformative for our continent: an African Declaration on the Promotion of the Role of Human Rights Defenders and their Protection.
This process, led by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, is responding to a reality many of us know too well—shrinking civic space, increasing risks for defenders, and limited legal protections across most African countries.
Despite the existence of important frameworks and mechanisms, only a handful of countries on the continent have adopted specific laws to protect human rights defenders. That gap is not just legal—it is experienced daily by activists, journalists, environmental defenders, and community leaders.
What makes this moment significant is that Africa is actively defining and strengthening its own framework—one that reflects our realities, values, and challenges, while remaining anchored in universal human rights standards.
Why these matters
At the heart of our discussions is a simple but urgent question: what does meaningful protection for human rights defenders look like in Africa today?
It becomes clear very quickly that this goes beyond recognition. It is about whether defenders can do their work without fear—free from intimidation, harassment, or reprisals.
It also means being clear about responsibility. States must not only acknowledge defenders, but actively protect them, investigate violations, and ensure access to justice.
At the same time, risks are evolving. Those working on land, environment, and natural resources are increasingly exposed and require deliberate protection.
And while African values remain important, there is a shared understanding that they must strengthen protection—not be used to limit rights. Ultimately, protection must be real and felt—not just stated.
Closing reflections
As the discussions continue, one message comes through clearly: the need for clarity, balance, and real protection. There is strong recognition of the importance of African traditions and values, but also a shared understanding that these must always align with human rights principles—especially when defenders are challenging power or speaking for marginalized communities.
Key concerns are emerging around the risks faced by defenders in extractive industries, as well as the growing threats in digital spaces, including surveillance and online harassment. At the same time, there is a strong emphasis on ensuring that this Declaration (howbeit soft law) is not just aspirational, but practical, implementable, and enforceable.
What stands out most is the spirit of collaboration—bringing together civil society, experts, and institutions to shape a common vision. But even as this process unfolds, there is a shared awareness that the real test will not be adoption. It will be what follows: implementation at national level, political will from States, and sustained engagement from all of us working on the ground.
This Declaration has the potential to become a true continental benchmark—one that defenders can rely on and that States can be held accountable to. As the process continues, it must remain inclusive, grounded in realities, and firmly anchored in protection.
Because in the end, defending human rights should never come at the cost of one’s safety.
