This paper replaces a paper of the same title issued in May 1987 (IOR 03/04/87). It focuses on the African Charter for Human and People’s Rights, adopted by the Organization for African Unity (OAU), which entered into force in 1986. Distinctive features of the African Charter are discussed, as are textual differences between this Charter and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Other topics covered include the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the role of non-governmental organizations vis-a-vis the African Charter and the African Commission. A bibliography is provided and the text of the African Charter is appended, along with a list of States Parties and a concordance with other United Nations instruments.
