Measures of Safeguards Under the Banjul Charter on Human and People's Rights

The Banjul Charter commonly known as the African Charter on Human and People's Rights was formally adopted in 1981. The rationale behind the treaty was to challenge Africa's own neglect of human rights abuses in the post-colonial period, and to urge members of the OAU, now the AU, to adopt a regional human rights instrument. This paper presents a brief introduction to the tenants of the Banjul Charter, procedures and areas of divergence. It examines the rationale behind keeping the proceedings of relevant bodies confidential. It critically analyses the achievements of some African states in implementing human rights and their relationships with the OAU, and provides a view of what future role the AU might play in the protection process.