BAMRO

From Banjul to the World: Closing of the 85th Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights – with BAMRO’s participation

Banjul, The Gambia | 30 October 2025

Our organization, the Belgian Association for Human Rights and Development (BAMRO) – holding consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) – took part in the closing ceremony of the 85th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Banjul, The Gambia.

 A closing session filled with strong human messages

The session concluded on Thursday, 30 October 2025, in the presence of Commissioners, representatives of AU Member States, national human rights institutions, regional and international organizations, and numerous African NGOs.

BAMRO’s participation reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to justice, dignity, and humanity across the African continent.

 Main themes of the session

Key issues discussed included:

Election of the new Executive Bureau.

Adoption of the 2026–2030 Strategic Plan and Commissioners’ reports.

Celebration of African Human Rights Day and honoring rights defenders.

Discussion on the human rights situation in conflict-affected regions.

Review of State reports under the African Charter.

Strengthening cooperation with NGOs and national institutions.

Examination of individual communications and final recommendations.

 BAMRO’s participation

BAMRO held meetings with Commissioners and representatives of regional and international organizations to promote civil and social rights protection, empower youth and women in human rights work, and enhance regional cooperation for sustainable development.

The organization emphasized:

The independence of African civil society institutions.

Protection of human rights defenders from harassment.

Cooperation between the African Union and the United Nations in implementing recommendations.

BAMRO will follow up on the outcomes of this session through training programs and regional partnerships during 2026.