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HURISA’s Advocacy Work

HURISA’s Advocacy Work

Holding governments accountable to their international obligations

HURISA holds governments accountable for human rights by engaging with national, regional, and international human rights bodies. This includes institutions established in South Africa’s Constitution (Chapter 9 Institutions) like the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), United Nations bodies like the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) and Special Mandate Holders, and African Union mechanisms like the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR).
We use these channels to advocate for governments to uphold their human rights obligations, by submitting reports on a country’s human rights record, known as “shadow reports,” which highlight areas where the government falls short. These reports are then presented to international bodies and can lead to recommendations for improvement. Additionally, HURISA works to ensure governments implement these recommendations once they are made.

Strengthening the African human rights system

Building a Stronger Legal Framework

We actively contribute to developing and strengthening the African human rights architecture. We’ve worked on initiatives like the ACHPR Guidelines on Freedom of Association and Assembly (FoAA), ensuring these guidelines reflect the needs of the continent. Additionally, we participate in reference groups to prepare reports on critical issues like the situation of Women Human Rights Defenders in Africa (WHRD).

Empowering Civil Society Participation

HURISA recognises the crucial role of civil society organisations (CSOs) and human rights defenders (HRDs) in promoting human rights. We provide training and technical support to equip these groups to effectively engage with the ACHPR. This includes helping CSOs and HRDs obtain observer status with the African Commission, allowing them to participate in public sessions and advocate for human rights concerns.

Working at the national and regional level

Facilitating Communication and Engagement

HURISA acts as a bridge between CSOs, HRDs, and the ACHPR. We organise consultations before and after ACHPR sessions, ensuring CSOs and HRDs have a platform to voice their concerns and engage with the Commission on issues impacting South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Our leadership roles further strengthen this communication and advocacy.

Advocating for Change in South Africa

HURISA’s advocacy efforts extend to the national level. We work to ensure South African laws reflect and uphold human rights principles. This includes advocating for changes to legislation like the Regulation of Gathering Act to guarantee freedom of assembly and expression. We advocate for policy change in parliament and conduct policy training to parliamentarians.

We have also pushed for the enactment of progressive laws to end social prejudices that hinder the work of WHRDs, using various methods to raise awareness about human rights issues and shrinking civic space, including organising protests, demonstrations, and petition presentations. These campaigns highlight limitations on women’s participation in policy making. HURISA collaborates with CSOs and activists, particularly those focused on environmental and land rights, to advocate for legal changes that create a safer environment for all human rights defenders.

Celebrating Milestones

2024 marks a dual celebration for HURISA. This year coincides with our 30th anniversary of promoting a culture of respect for human rights, fostering safe communities, peace, and democracy in South Africa and beyond. Additionally, it’s the 10th anniversary of two critical African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights (ACHPR) Resolutions championed by HURISA and partners.

Resolution 273 emphasises the protection of HRDs from reprisals through progressive legislation, while Resolution 275 promotes the protection of LGBTQI+ individuals.

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