ARTICLE 45

The functions of the Commission shall be:

  1. To promote human and peoples’ rights and in particular:
    1. to collect documents, undertake studies and researches on African problems in the field of human and peoples’ rights, organise seminars, symposia and conferences, disseminate information, encourage national and local institutions concerned with human and peoples’ rights and, should the case arise, give its views or make recommendations to Governments.
    2. to formulae and lay down, principles and rules aimed at solving legal problems relating to human and peoples’ rights and fundamental freedoms upon which African Governments may base their legislation.
    3. cooperate with other African and international institutions concerned with the promotion and protection of human and peoples’ rights.
  2. Ensure the protection of human and peoples’ rights under conditions laid down by the present Charter.
  3. Interpret all the provisions of the present Charter at the request of a State Party, an institution of the OAU or an African Organisation recognised by the OAU.
  4. Perform any other tasks which may be entrusted to it by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government.