Open Society Initiative of Southern Africa (OSISA)

While many countries in Africa are contemplating ways in which to extend access to social protection for their citizens, the enjoyment of socio-economic rights by non-nationals receives scarce commentary. Despite the existence of international, continental and regional instruments and treaties that guarantee both access to socio-economic rights for all and equality within states of nationals and non-nationals, for many these rights remain paper rights.

OSISA also highlights Swaziland and SADC Tribunal

As African human rights practitioners gather in Yamoussoukro to mark the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), it is critical that they frankly and honestly discuss the track record of this supranational body in promoting and protecting human rights on the continent.

Despite its many challenges and numerous critics, the significance of the role played by the African Commission in the protection of human rights – particularly through its interpretation and enforcement of the African Charter – cannot be denied.

On the 8th of February, Zimbabwe’s political principals - President Mugabe, Prime Minister Tsvangirai and Deputy Prime Minister Mutambara - met to discuss outstanding issues in the Global Political Agreement (GPA) ahead of a planned visit by SADC facilitator, President Zuma of South Africa. And the story that was given to the media after the lengthy discussion seemed very positive - on a host of issues from the constitution to elections to media reform to a land audit.