ESI Africa’s Post

As we commemorate Human Rights Day in South Africa, it's imperative to reflect on the journey towards equality, justice, and dignity for all. Human Rights Day stands as a testament to the resilience of the South African people in their pursuit of freedom. On this day, let us not only honor the heroes and heroines who fought for our rights but also reaffirm our commitment to building a more just and equitable society. let this day serve as a call to action, a reminder that the struggle for human rights is ongoing and that each of us has a role to play in shaping a better future for generations to come. Let us stand together in solidarity, drawing strength from our past victories and the resilience of those who came before us, as we continue the march towards a truly inclusive and just society. Happy human rights day , South Africa. May we never forget the sacrifices made, nor lose sight of the work that lies ahead 💚💚

The draft South African National Peace Charter was introduced to the public by the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation and the Human Rights Institute of South Africa, at the Human Rights Festival hosted at the Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, drawing attention to the importance of human rights, Women, Peace and Security as well as peace for all in the country. The genesis of the charter can be traced back to the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) 2020 – 2025. This comprehensive framework underscores the imperative for a Peace Charter in South Africa. With key government and stakeholder input, the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security laid the groundwork for collaborative efforts towards achieving lasting peace in the nation. By actively engaging with the charter, individuals are encouraged to pledge their commitment to making South Africa a more peaceful society. The official launch of the Peace Charter will soon take place at a date to be announced.

On March 21st, South Africa commemorates Human Rights Day to honor the brave souls who fought for freedom during the Sharpeville massacre of 1960. 🌟 The Sharpeville Massacre marked a turning point in South Africa’s history. On this tragic day, 69 people lost their lives and 180 were wounded when police opened fire on a crowd protesting against the apartheid regime’s Pass laws. 🙏 🎉 Ways to Celebrate: Educate: Learn about South Africa’s delicate past by visiting museums, monuments, and historical sites. 🏛️ Reflect: Take a moment to appreciate the hard-won human rights we enjoy today. 🤔 Advocate: Raise awareness about human rights issues and support organizations working for justice. ✊ Unity: Join virtual events, discussions, or workshops that promote unity and equality. 🌍 Let’s stand together for justice, equality, and dignity! 🤝

Human rights, inherently belonging to all individuals by virtue of their humanity, were formally articulated in 1948 by the United Nations through the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, encompassing 30 fundamental articles. Rooted in principles of humanity, freedom, justice, and peace, these rights serve as a beacon for global citizenship. In South Africa, Human Rights Day holds profound significance, serving as a poignant reminder of the struggles endured in the pursuit of democracy. This annual observance offers a moment for introspection, assessing advancements in the advocacy and safeguarding of human rights. Historically tied to the tragic events of Sharpeville on March 21, 1960, Human Rights Day in South Africa memorializes the sacrifices made. The day witnessed the loss of 69 lives and left 180 wounded as authorities opened fire on a peaceful assembly protesting the Pass laws. It stands as a testament to the collective assertion of rights by ordinary citizens, etching a pivotal moment in the nation's narrative. Indeed, without visionary leadership, the commemoration of Human Rights Day and the acknowledgment of such sacrifices would not be possible. Since its inaugural commemoration in 1995, Human Rights Day in South Africa shares its calendar with the anniversary of the infamous Sharpeville Massacre of 1960, reinforcing the solemnity of the occasion and honouring the memory of those who fought for the cherished ideals of human dignity, diversity, culture and inclusion. #HumanRightsDay #IntegralRebirth

🎉🌍 Today, as we celebrate #AfricaDay, let's reaffirm our commitment to upholding human rights across the continent. On this special day, we call upon all member States to fulfil their obligations under the African Charter. 👉 This includes submitting periodic reports to provide civil society organisations with the opportunity to share insights on the human rights situation in their countries and implement the Charter’s provisions. 👉 Funding for the African Commission is also key. Adequate funding ensures its independence and effectiveness. Let's unite to support the Commission and strengthen human rights protection across Africa. 🔗 Learn more about the African Charter: https://ow.ly/FHBz50RU4Gf #HumanRights #AfricanCharter #Multilateralism

As we celebrate Human Rights Day, I cannot help but zoom into the preamble of our Constitution. The most significant aspect of the preamble is that it sets the context for doing justice by recognising the injustices of colonial and apartheid regimes. Unlike most constitutions, it honours all persons who fought the unjust regimes to attain justice and freedoms and pays tribute to all persons who worked hard to build and develop South Africa. Most importantly, it seeks heal the divisions of the past and establish a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights; improve the quality of life of all citizens and free the potential of each person; and build a united and democratic South Africa able to take its rightful place as a sovereign state in the family of nations. Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika..🇿🇦🙌🏼

Happy Human Rights Day South Africa Reflecting on historical events such as the Sharpeville massacre in 1960 is crucial for understanding the progress made toward democracy and equality in our country. The sacrifices and struggles of those who fought for these ideals serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding them. By reflecting on the past, we can identify areas where progress has been made and where challenges still exist. It's an opportunity to renew commitments to the values of democracy and equality and to take action to address any remaining injustices for future generations.

My new research on Tunisia's freedom of assembly for HuMENA for Human Rights and Civic Engagement: “Under Siege: The Shrinking Space for Peaceful Assembly in Tunisia.” https://lnkd.in/eQKDXCE9

Today, I sit in deep contemplation and emotion on the significance of Human Rights Day in South Africa... It is a day that holds deep meaning for me, not just as a South African citizen, but as a human being with a profound sense of empathy and compassion. I am reminded of the struggles and sacrifices of those who came before us. Their courage and resilience serve as a beacon of hope, guiding us in our own journey towards a better world. For me, human rights are more than just a set of laws or principles; they are the very essence of our humanity. They are the foundation upon which we build our societies – societies that value dignity, respect, and compassion for all. Amidst the challenges we have faced for generations, there is hope. Hope in the power of empathy and understanding to bridge the divides that separate us. Through human connection and compassion we can collectively achieve a great deal of positive. Through deeper listening and understanding that we are all human we have the power to accept and see one another as equals. I have hope in the belief that, together, we can create a world where every person is treated with dignity and respect. With love and solidarity, Denielle #humanrightsday #southafricanculture #southafrica

As the International Day of Peace approaches, The Conflict Lab joins other youth-voice initiatives to highlight the vital role of young people in peacebuilding. With youth making up a significant portion of the global population, particularly in Africa, where over 60% are under 25, it has become clear that peace is not truly achieved until it is built with them, and more importantly, by them. To truly cultivate a lasting culture of peace, we must not only prioritize their inclusion but actively promote their ownership of the process. #YouthOwnPeace #YouthLeadPeace #CultivatingPeace #ConflictLAb #YouthForPeace AU-EU Youth Voices Lab - Power of the Collective YALI West Africa Alumni Cameroon South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa Search for Common Ground Plan International