Issued by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR)
Pursuant to Resolution ACHPR/Res.632 (LXXXII) 2025
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
The ACHPR, in its Resolution ACHPR/Res.632 (LXXXII) 2025, recognized the urgent need to raise awareness and advocate for the withdrawal of reservations on some provisions of the Maputo Protocol. These reservations, lodged by several State Parties, limit the full realization of women’s rights in critical areas such as: Marriage, divorce, and inheritance (Articles 6, 7, 21); Sexual and reproductive health (Article 14, including access to safe abortion); Gender equality and non-discrimination (Articles 2, 8, 9).
The Draft Advocacy Framework responds to this Resolution by providing: Legal and policy guidance on the implications of reservations under international law; Targeted strategies for State Parties, AU Organs, RECs, NHRIs, CSOs, and other stakeholders to advocate for withdrawal; and best practices from States that have successfully withdrawn reservations (e.g., The Gambia, Rwanda).
The Framework aims to ensure universal application of the Maputo Protocol, reinforcing Africa’s commitment to gender equality, dignity, and justice for women and girls. Key areas for stakeholder input include, amongst others, strengthening the Framework by providing substantive contributions on legal and policy recommendations, advocacy and implementation strategies, monitoring and accountability, case studies, and lessons learned, such as examples of successful advocacy campaigns; challenges faced by States in harmonizing domestic laws with the Protocol and collaborative partnerships.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
With this in mind, a consultative process was set up in line with the ACHPR’s best practices. The draft Framework has been published to obtain the views of all stakeholders. Stakeholders are invited to submit their contributions to improve the final text.
HOW AND WHERE TO SUBMIT INPUTS
1. Deadline: 22 October 2025
2. Email submissions to:au-banjul@africanunion.org, copying MbengueI@africanunion.org
3. Format and language: Written submissions in English, French, or Portuguese, with clear referencing to specific sections of the draft Framework, where applicable.
4. Page limit: Concise, actionable recommendations preferred (max. 5 pages).
