Resolution on the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

During the 51st ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the African Commission), held in Banjul, The Gambia from 18 April to 2 May 2012, the Commission agreed to an important resolution on the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

The OP-ESCR, which was adopted in December of 2008 requires 10 ratifications in order for it to come into force. However, currently, 8 states have ratified the Optional protocol and 32 others, including some African states, have signed it.  So far no African country has ratified the instrument. Given that African countries were actively involved in the negotiation, drafting and adoption this instrument, the resolution could not have come at a better time than now. The resolution urges States Parties to the African Charter that have not done so to ratify the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the Optional Protocol to the ICESCR.

223: Resolution on the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights