The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has commended the Government of Sierra Leone for ratifying the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, describing the move as a significant milestone in strengthening justice, accountability and the protection of citizens’ rights. The organisation said the ratification reflects Sierra Leone’s growing commitment to upholding the rule of law, democratic governance and internationally recognized human rights standards.
In a Press Release issued on 16 July 2026 in Freetown, CHRDI stated that the ratification marks a landmark achievement for democracy and human rights in Sierra Leone. According to the organisation, the decision reinforces the country’s commitment to regional human rights mechanisms and demonstrates its willingness to uphold legal protections and accountability beyond national borders.
CHRDI noted that the development holds particular significance for Civil Society Organisations, which continue to play a vital role in promoting justice, defending vulnerable communities, documenting human rights abuses, supporting victims and advocating for legal and policy reforms. It explained that the ratification provides a stronger legal and institutional framework that will enhance advocacy efforts aimed at ensuring compliance with recognized African human rights standards.
The organisation further stated that the Protocol strengthens public accountability by providing Civil Society Organisations with a clearer regional framework for rights-based engagement while promoting transparency, human dignity and broader access to justice. It added that the Government’s decision to ratify the Protocol signals its readiness to be assessed against continental human rights standards, creating a more conducive environment for democratic reforms and effective human rights advocacy.
CHRDI also highlighted the direct benefits the ratification offers to ordinary Sierra Leoneans. It observed that citizens affected by discrimination, abuse of authority, unlawful detention or denial of justice require strong institutions capable of protecting their rights. According to the organisation, the Protocol offers renewed hope that justice can be pursued through national institutions and, where necessary, through regional legal mechanisms.
Commending the Government’s action, CHRDI described the ratification as more than a legal process, saying it represents a public commitment to placing human dignity, justice and accountability at the centre of governance.
“CHRDI commends the Government of Sierra Leone for taking this commendable step to promote and protect citizens’ rights. The ratification of this Protocol is not only a legal act; it is a public affirmation that human dignity, justice and accountability must remain central to governance in Sierra Leone,” the organisation stated.
CHRDI further encouraged the Government to build on the achievement by ensuring the full implementation of its human rights obligations while expanding access to justice, particularly for poor, vulnerable and marginalized citizens.
The organisation also called on Government institutions, Civil Society Organisations, members of the legal profession, development partners and citizens to work collectively to transform the ratification into meaningful action. It urged stakeholders to strengthen public awareness of human rights, improve access to justice and promote democratic accountability across Sierra Leone.
CHRDI concluded that the ratification should not only be celebrated as a diplomatic achievement but should also be fully implemented in ways that produce tangible improvements in the daily lives of Sierra Leoneans.
The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International is a civil society organisation dedicated to advancing human rights, democratic governance, justice and the protection of citizens’ freedoms through social and public policy advocacy in Sierra Leone and beyond.
