The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has charged governments, regional organisations, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to redirect their attention to the issues of human rights and ensure its protection at all cost.
ITUC-Africa stressed that it is only by reaffirming commitment to protecting human rights: freedom. equality, and justice, can Africa as a continent forge a path towards a fairer and more inclusive society that respects and upholds every individual’s inherent dignity and rights.
In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Akhator Joel Odigie, the confederation further said Africa is at a critical juncture where it is confronting multifaceted challenges that erode the rights and freedoms of its people.
Titled Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All; the statement in full reads: “As we commemorate Human Rights Day 2023, ITUC Africa stands resolutely committed to championing the principles of freedom, equality, and justice for all individuals across the African continent.
“This year‘s theme, “Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All,” encapsulates the fundamental aspirations of human rights laid out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) adopted by the United Nations in 1948.
“The UDHR (Universal Declaration of Human Rights), a seminal document in the quest for global human rights, has been instrumental in guiding nations and organisations toward ensuring the protection and promotion of human dignity.
“Over the years, it has expanded its scope to include marginalised and vulnerable groups, recognising the rights of persons with disabilities. indigenous peoples, migrants. and other disadvantaged populations.
“Regrettably, the noble promise of dignity and equality guaranteed by the UDHR faces mounting challenges, particularly within the African context. Despite commendable strides in advancing human rights, the continent continues grappling with hurdles that undermine these fundamental principles.
“Africa finds itself at a critical juncture, confronting multifaceted challenges that erode the rights and freedoms of its people. The continent bears witness to a distressing trend of diminishing space for human rights, manifested through various socio-economic and political upheavals.
“The widening gap between the affluent and the impoverished has been exacerbated by the skyrocketing cost of living, worsening inequality and undermining the foundational principles of equality enshrined in the UDHR.
“Moreover, the African working class confronts an intensified onslaught on their rights. The assault on freedom of association and collective bargaining rights, essential pillars in ensuring fair and equitable labour practices, has reached alarming levels
“In alignment with the year long Human Rights 75 initiative, ITUC-Africa remains steadfast in its unwavering commitment to raising awareness about the universality of the UDHR.
“We urgently call upon governments, regional bodies, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders to reinvigorate their dedication to safeguarding human rights on the African continent. Collective action and solidarity are imperative in addressing the pressing issues of our time, including pandemics. conflicts. escalating inequalities, a fIawed global financial system. racism, and the existential threat of climate change.
“By reaffirming our commitment to freedom. equality, and justice, we can forge a path towards a fairer, more inclusive society in Africa that respects and upholds every individual’s inherent dignity and rights.
“We shall remain seized and vigilant in ensuring the enjoyment of the provisions of the UDHR. We shall commend reasonable efforts towards the enjoyment of rights and call out egregious acts whilst standing ready to collaborate with progressive actors in fashioning and deploying actions to achieve socialjustice for all.”
