Closing the Compliance Gap: Collaborative Approaches to Implementing ACHPR Decisions

Despite institutional and civil society efforts, a significant gap remains in the implementation of decisions of the African Commission of Human and People Rights (ACHPR), particularly those awarding reparations to victims and survivors of torture and other human rights violations. Multiple obstacles continue to hinder the effective delivery of reparations to victims and survivors, many of whom have already waited years for redress. These challenges include a lack of political will by States, insufficient institutional capacity to follow up on the Commission’s decisions and limited technical expertise among the authorities responsible for implementation. 

The absence of effective mechanisms not only prevents implementation but can also exacerbate the original violations, generating new forms of victimisation and deep frustration and fatigue among victims and survivors. 

To promote open and constructive dialogue as a strategy for advancing implementation of ACHPR decisions, the Implementation Working Group (IWG) of the Litigants Group for the Strengthening of the ACHPR held a panel during the 85th Ordinary Session of the ACHPR.  

The IWG’s panel was moderated by Commissioner Hon. Maria Louise Abomo and included Rachel Murray, director of the Bonavero Institute of Human Rights at Oxford University; Victor Ayeni from the implementation unit of the ACHPR;  Pacharo Kiyira, from the National Mechanism for Implementation, Reporting and Follow-Up in Malawi (NMIRF); Foluso Adegalum, from National Human Rights Institutions Network (NHRIs); and Michael Nyarko, Executive Deputy Director of the Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa (IHRDA). Throughout the discussion, the panel explored challenges and practical strategies to enhance compliance with the Commission’s decisions and ensure reparations become a reality. These strategies included increased collaboration, data collection and reporting, strengthening internal systems, enhancing the role of NHRIs, and establishing implementation hearings.  

Collaborative approach 

The panel highlighted that implementation depends on effective coordination among States, litigants, victims, NHRIs, and civil society organisations (CSOs). This was expressed as a collaborative approach to help maximise capacities and resources. 

It was also emphasised that national initiatives involving open dialogue with the judiciary, parliament, NHRIs and civil society in implementation discussions. Furthermore, the panel noted that public dialogues convened by IHDRA held in selected countries, including some with Commission participation, have served as useful ad hoc follow-up mechanisms. 

Data Collection and Reporting 

Data gaps were identified as one of the ACHPR’s biggest challenges hindering implementation. To address this, the Commission recently conducted an audit of its merit decisions from 1994-2024 to improve tracking and help determine the status of ACHPR’s decisions.  The panel stressed the importance of systematically information already provided during ACHPR’s sessions – such as statements from States, NHRIs, CSOs, and others made during sessions, as – which often contain valuable updates that are not currently captured in the study. 

The need for more consistent reporting by State parties and litigants was highlighted as another strategy for improvement. Although Member States and litigants are required to provide updates to the Commission in writing within 180 days from the publication of the Commission decision, continued periodic reporting would help sustain dialogue and provide greater clarity on implementation progress.  

Strengthening Internal Systems 

Speakers also noted the importance of practical reforms aligned with the capacities of the different actors. In additional to digitalising the Commission’s case management system, the ACHPR is developing a communication manual with templates to facilitate engagement between representatives of State parties, NHRIs and other actors.  It was also recommended closer coordination between the ACHPR and other regional human rights mechanisms, and that mission reports, resolutions, recommendations, and press releases integrated into the implementation-tracking process.   

The Role of NHRIs 

Participants underscored the relevant role of NHRIs in coordination and reporting.  It was noted that shadow reports to the African Commission can enhance follow-up and improve implementation dialogue.  

Participants also cautioned that implementation can be sidelined within broader NHRIs mandates unless roles are clearly defined before and during implementation processes. This reinforces the need for accessible data and streamlined communication between all parties involved in implementation. NHRIs can also encourage governments to adopt national action plans to implement ACHPR decisions. It was further stressed that NHRI independence is essential for effective implementation. 

Implementation hearings  

The panel also underscored the value of implementation hearings to enable direct engagement between the Commission, States, victims, CSOs, and other actors. Such hearings could assess compliance, identify obstacles, and gather evidence on implementation efforts, helping build trust, promote transparency as well as a positive and collaborative human rights ecosystem in Africa.  

Overall, the panel reaffirmed that effective implementation of the Commission’s decisions is essential to strengthening human rights protection in Africa. While past decisions have prompted important national reforms, there remains a clear need to strengthen institutions and establish effective mechanisms, improve visibility and transparency, and deepen engagement and collaboration among all relevant actors to advance implementation. Crucially, there must be sustained commitment to ensuring that decisions translate into real justice and redress for victims and survivors in the continent. 

Photo: Initiative for Strategic Litigation in Africa