Article 19 welcomes adoption of declaration of principles

The Article 19 has welcomed the adoption of the declaration of principles of the freedom of expression in Africa by The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

In a news release dated 29 October, Article 19 said the declaration symbolised the commitment and determination of the African Commission to tackle the increasing violations of the right to freedom of expression and information in many African countries.

The declaration addresses in a holistic and comprehensive manner the major threats to freedom of expression and information on the continent and will serve as a benchmark to evaluate states compliance with Article 19 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the release stated.

It will also strengthen the right to freedom of expression and information in the context of the African Union and the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) initiative, paving the way for the recognition of the role of the media in these important processes, it said.

The declaration stresses the "fundamental importance of freedom of expression as an individual human right, as a cornerstone of democracy and as a means of ensuring respect for all human rights and freedoms".

"Article 19 appreciates this important move and will continue to work closely with the African Commission to monitor the implementation of this Declaration by state parties to the African Charter," Andrew Puddepphatt, Executive Director of Article 19 said.

The Commission adopted the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression in Africa at its 32nd Ordinary Session, in Banjul, The Gambia, held from 17th to 23rd October 2002.

The meeting considered and adopted a resolution on the Guidelines and Measures for the Prohibition and Prevention of Torture and Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Punishment or Treatment in Africa also known as the Robben Island Guidelines.

The Declaration and reports of previous meetings