The creation of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights is aimed at strengthening the supervisory mechanism of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The Court will have the power to bind those states who have ratified the Charter to its judgments. Some argue that the Court will serve as the “teeth” needed by the African Union to have a significant impact on the protection of human rights. Others are skeptical, doubting the Court will have any tangible effect. In this article, the author examines these considerations and questions whether conditions exist for such a court to function in Africa at this time. The author ultimately concludes that the Court could become a “bastion of strength for human rights” on the continent, if properly managed and adequately funded. Wise and neutral judges, and stronger economic and diplomatic ties among African states could also contribute to the potential for success.
IssueNo
Pages
238-245
Article
Article Not Available
Source
The Administration of Justice: current themes in comparative perspective
