Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings Calls for Stronger Human Rights and Digital Protections at Banjul Session

Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Second Vice President of the Pan-African Parliament, has called for renewed continental efforts to strengthen human rights, democratic governance and peacebuilding across Africa during the opening of the 87th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights in Banjul.

Addressing the session on behalf of the President of the Pan-African Parliament, Fateh Boutbig, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings stressed the urgent need for African states to deepen cooperation in safeguarding peace, constitutional order and citizens’ rights amid growing political and technological challenges.

Particular emphasis was placed on the role of women in peacebuilding, mediation and conflict prevention across the continent, with women described as vital community stabilisers and bridge-builders during periods of unrest. Member States were also urged to ratify the Malabo Convention to strengthen Africa’s response to cybersecurity threats, protect citizens online and advance digital sovereignty.

The address further highlighted the importance of ratifying and domesticating model laws developed by the Pan-African Parliament to harmonise governance systems and ensure legislation remains responsive to the changing needs of African citizens. Concerns were also raised over the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and digitalisation, with a call for digital rights to be recognised as fundamental human rights protected by coherent legal and policy frameworks.

Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings further noted that sustainable peace and security could not be achieved through military responses alone, urging African governments to invest in strong institutions, inclusive governance, civic participation and constitutionalism to ensure citizens feel represented and heard.