The African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), in collaboration with various stakeholders, is pushing for the adoption of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) toolkit to enhance how lawmakers address human rights issues, particularly freedom of religion and belief, across Africa.
The initiative was highlighted during a workshop held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, organized by ACEPA and the International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPP-FORB).
Fernanda San Martin, Director of IPP-FORB, explained to Citi News that the toolkit equips African parliamentarians to better advocate for human rights and religious freedoms, enabling them to support international standards and promote tolerance within their countries.
Senior Governance Advisor for ACEPA, Issifu Lampo, emphasized the toolkit’s importance ahead of Ghana’s 2024 general elections, particularly in fostering religious tolerance and inclusivity in governance.
He noted that engaging marginalized groups and embracing diverse religious perspectives strengthens human rights commitments.
South African parliamentarian Angel Kanyele shared insights on challenges in her country, where vulnerable individuals are often exploited by individuals posing as religious leaders.
She believes the toolkit will empower MPs to educate communities and resist such exploitative practices.
The two-day workshop gathered parliamentarians from various African nations, including Gambia, South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, and Tanzania, to share experiences and strategies for addressing religious tolerance and human rights.
