The 83rd Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) opened this Friday, May 2 in Banjul, Gambia, with a strong call for reparative justice, cultural restitution, and the defense of human rights through multilateralism. The session, running through May 22, 2025, was inaugurated by Dr. Marcel Akpovo, Regional Director of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), who delivered a keynote speech highlighting urgent human rights issues on the continent.
Defending Human Rights Through Multilateralism
Dr. Akpovo emphasized the crucial role of multilateral institutions particularly the ACHPR in preserving progress made in human rights across Africa. He warned against emerging threats and urged all stakeholders to remain steadfast in protecting hard-won gains.
Reparative Justice and Accountability
In alignment with the African Union’s 2025 theme, Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations, Akpovo called for reparations to address the lasting consequences of slavery, colonialism, and systemic exploitation. He spotlighted the United Nations’ Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034), which promotes recognition, justice, and development.
Cultural Restitution and Historical Justice
Highlighting the importance of cultural restitution, Akpovo noted partnerships between the OHCHR, the African Union Commission, and UNESCO to facilitate the return of looted cultural heritage. He praised recent successes, including Benin’s recovery of 26 artifacts from France and Ethiopia’s repatriation of the Axum Obelisk from Italy.
OHCHR’s Commitment and CERD’s Role
The OHCHR reaffirmed its dedication to supporting transitional justice and accountability mechanisms throughout Africa. Akpovo also mentioned that the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) is preparing a new General Recommendation on reparations, following its April 25, 2025, discussions on redress for historical injustices related to the transatlantic slave trade.
This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), with stakeholders encouraged to participate in commemorative initiatives.
The 83rd ACHPR session continues with deliberations on human rights challenges, state compliance, and strategies for advancing justice and equality across the African continent.
Emebet Asefa,
Correspondent
