Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026
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Due Date: 7 April 2026
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, QUESTION 1 (2 ANSWERS PROVIDED)
DIRECT ACCESS TO THE AFRICAN COURT ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’
RIGHTS
Introduction
The establishment of the African Court on Human and Peoples‟ Rights represents a
significant development in the regional protection of human rights on the African
continent. The Court was created through the Protocol to the African Charter on
Human and Peoples‟ Rights on the Establishment of an African Court on Human and
Peoples‟ Rights (Court Protocol) in order to complement and reinforce the protective
mandate of the African Commission on Human and Peoples‟ Rights.1 The Court‟s
jurisdiction is grounded in both the Court Protocol and the African Charter on Human
and Peoples‟ Rights (African Charter).2
One of the most debated and practically consequential issues relating to the Court is
locus standi, that is, who may institute proceedings before it. Article 5 of the Court
Protocol regulates access to the Court and establishes five categories of actors with
direct standing.3 In addition, Article 5(3), read with Article 34(6), opens the possibility
for direct access by “relevant” non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with
observer status before the Commission, as well as individuals, subject to a special
declaration by the respondent State.4
1
Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples‟ Rights on the Establishment of an African
Court on Human and Peoples‟ Rights (1998) („Court Protocol‟)
2
African Charter on Human and Peoples‟ Rights (1981) („African Charter‟).
3
Court Protocol, art 5(1).
4
Court Protocol, arts 5(3), 34(6).
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