African Court Plans Legal Assistance for Underprivileged Applicants

The African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights (AfCHPR), based in Tanzania, is actively working towards making its legal aid fund for impoverished applicants of human rights violations operational.

Justice Stella Anukam of the court revealed this initiative during a public lecture at Baze University Law Faculty in Abuja, commemorating 20 years of human rights protection. She highlighted the court's efforts to bolster the legal support fund through increased contributions from the African Union (AU) and its partners. The goal is to finance legal assistance for indigent victims, broaden collaborations with NGOs to offer pro bono legal services, and ultimately improve access to justice.

Furthermore, the court plans to operationalize the legal aid fund by empowering external entities such as civil society organisations, academic institutions, and legal professionals. Justice Anukam stated, "The expense of bringing a case before the Court remains a significant barrier for many victims. It is therefore crucial to operationalize and strengthen the Legal Aid Fund to democratize access to justice."

She explained that the court undertakes a dual role: adjudicating on human rights violations and providing advisory opinions on the interpretation of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.

Justice Anukam expressed concern over the failure of many African governments, including Nigeria, to ratify the declaration that allows individuals and NGOs to bring cases directly to the court under Article 34(6). She emphasized that governments have a responsibility to support the court and ensure adherence to its rulings, noting that their political commitment is vital for reinforcing democratic legitimacy and the rule of law.