Our History
Championing Democracy & Human Rights Across Africa
In 2017, the A frican Parliamentarians Association for Human Rights (AfriPAHR) was born out of the desire of a group of parliamentarians to create a network of both current and former parliamentarians passionate about advancing democracy and human rights, with a specifc focus on freedom of religion and belief, on the African continent. Their work is informed by the lived experience of their citizenry.
Against the backdrop of growing concerns for violations of human rights in Africa, AfriPAHR was established based on the notion that a regional network of like-minded parliamentarians and other relevant stakeholders was needed to address the gaps of current institutional frameworks on human rights. Also, highlighting and promoting the strengths of existing systems for a free and fairer society.
With a vision to promote, n rture and strengthen democracy and human rights, especially the right to freedom of religion or belief in Africa, AfriPAHR's work is underpinned by globally accepted conventions and declarations. These include the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), the African Union's (AU) Agenda 2063, the AU's African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, as well as the AU Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance.
AfriPAHR is a growing continental network of lawmakers committed to advancing human rights, health equity, and democratic governance through legislative action. To date, over 100 MPs from across Africa are affliated with AfriPAHR, reflecting broad-based support for a rights-based approach to policymaking. We have launched local parliamentary caucuses in Ghana, Gambia, Malawi, Zambia, and Tanzania. These caucuses serve as strategic platforms to promote human rights, health equity, and inclusive governance through parliamentary action and accountability. In line with AfriPAHR’s framework, a caucus is officially launched in a member state once a minimum of ten sitting MPs have formally endorsed and joined the initiative.
Our Vision
Our vision is an Africa in which every person's human rights are protected, and where each person can enjoy democracy and freedom of thought, conscience and religion, as free and equal citizens.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide a platform for African parliamentarians to promote and advance democracy and human rights in Africa, with a specic focus on freedom of religion or belief, through diplomacy and strategic alliances.
Our Core Values
Teamwork & Partnership
AfriPAHR will collaborate with African and international stakeholders.
Diversity
AfriPAHR is committed to diversity in all its work, including regional, gender, political, ethnic, religious and belief diversity.
Non-Discrimination & Equality
AfriPAHR will promote principles which ensure that everybody has an equal opportunity and is not treated differently or discriminated against.
Humanity
AfriPAHR members are inspired and guided by the connectedness and compassion among human beings as part of the human family