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Mechanisms

Communication to the African Commission

African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights

Which States it covers
The State must be party to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights. All African Union members except Morocco are.
Who can file
Anyone, including victims, other individuals and NGOs. The author does not need to be related to the victim, and NGOs do not need observer status.
Time limit
Within a reasonable period after the final decision in the State. The Commission has generally treated about 6 months as reasonable, and longer delays must be explained.
Do I need to use national courts first?
Domestic remedies must be exhausted if they are available, effective and sufficient. This is not required where those conditions are not met or the procedure is unduly prolonged.
Good to know
The communication must name its authors, who can ask to stay anonymous in public. It must not use insulting language or rely only on media reports. The Commission provides an official complaint form. Under Article 56(7), the communication must not deal with a case already settled by the States involved in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter, the Charter of the Organisation of African Unity or the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. This is not a general prohibition on all parallel proceedings. Corrections checked concern available, effective and sufficient remedies and prior settlement under Article 56(7). Checked on 20 October 2026 only for the corrections described here. Other information was not reverified.
How long it usually takes (estimate)
Usually 2 to 5 years.
What it can achieve
Recommendations such as compensation, investigation and prosecution, law reform and protection measures. If the State has accepted the African Court, the Commission can refer the case to the Court.
Do I need a lawyer?
No. You can file the complaint yourself. Just Access e.V. offers free guidance at contact@just-access.de.
What if my situation is urgent?
The Commission can ask the State to take provisional measures to prevent irreparable harm.
Privacy and safety
Communications are confidential until the African Union authorises publication of the decision.
What happens after the decision?
The State usually has 180 days to report on the measures taken.

This portal is a first source of ideas, not a substitute for expert advice. Before you take any step, talk to a human rights lawyer, for example the team of lawyers at Just Access e.V. (contact@just-access.de).

How to submitOfficial information

Source: Official information.Last updated: 10 November 2026.

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Sources