“The human rights situation is bleak on the African continent.” Refugees from the civil war in South Sudan are “not living lives worthy of human beings.” “Blood is flowing on our continent.” These were some of the stark words spoken by African human rights advocates on day one of the NGO Forum associated with the meeting of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights.
I am in Banjul, The Gambia, participating in the NGO Forum and Commission meeting this week on behalf of Regent’s Center for Global Justice, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law. Today produced an extreme range of emotions. On one hand, the reports of African human rights non-governmental organizations were indeed bleak. From corruption and the violent repression of political opposition to abuse of women and children, including forced marriages to little eleven year-old girls, the day confirmed that the forces of darkness are alive and well. On the other hand, it was a joy to get to know men and women who have dedicated themselves to protecting the lives and dignity of all human beings that we know come from God.
I am here to be an encouragement to these men and women and to see whether and how the Center for Global Justice and our students might grow our impact in Africa. Please pray for wisdom and divine appointments.
Jeffrey A. Brauch
Professor, Regent University School of Law
Executive Director, Center for Global Justice, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law
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| Jeff on the NGO Forum panel presenting recommendations from the interest group meetings |
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| Jeff on the NGO Forum panel presenting recommendations from the interest group meetings |
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| Jeff and Brigadier Siachitema (Southern Africa Litigation Centre) |