By Omonu YG Nelson
Abuja, Nigeria – The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) has called for urgent attention to the pressing human rights situation in West Africa, highlighting key challenges and proposing solutions.
Addressing parliamentarians at the ongoing ECOWAS Parliament First Ordinary Session of Year 2024 in Abuja, IHRC listed political repression, gender-based violence, lack of access to essential services, terrorism, and discrimination are among the primary challenges facing the region.
“Authoritarian regimes dominate and suppress dissent, violating basic rights and perpetuating instability,” said IHRC representative, Jane Doe. “Gender-based violence, including domestic violence and sexual harassment, remains prevalent, and access to quality education and healthcare is limited.”
The IHRC also emphasised the impact of terrorism and insecurity on human rights, citing over 1,800 terrorist attacks in West Africa in the first half of 2023, resulting in nearly 4,600 deaths.
To address these challenges, the IHRC proposed solutions, including promoting gender equality, enhancing access to justice, building partnerships, and regional and intergovernmental cooperation.
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“The International Human Rights Commission advocates for regional and intergovernmental cooperation to address human rights issues effectively,” said IHRC representative, John Smith. “Collaboration is paramount in ensuring the protection and promotion of human rights within the region.”
The IHRC has been actively engaged in promoting human rights in West Africa, including initiatives in Nigeria, Ghana, Cabo Verde, and Cote d’Ivoire. The organization has established partnerships with various stakeholders, including electoral commissions, to strengthen democracy and good governance.
“We must champion the defense and advancement of human rights within our borders and throughout the wider region,” said ECOWAS Parliament representative, James Brown. “Through joint efforts and a steadfast commitment to integrating human rights considerations into our policies and initiatives, we can pave the way for a future that is characterized by peace, justice, and equality for every individual in West Africa.”