Tunisia Shuts the Door to African Court: What’s at Stake for Justice and Human Rights?

In a surprising move on 7 March 2025, Tunisia officially withdrew its Declaration allowing individuals and NGOs to bring cases directly to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights. This decision quietly strips over 12 million citizens of a vital channel to seek justice beyond national borders.

For a country that has only faced 25 cases at the Court in over a decade, this sudden withdrawal raises serious concerns. Is this about limited resources—or is it a political decision to sidestep international scrutiny?

The implications go far beyond Tunisia. This step sets a troubling precedent for accountability on the continent. At a time when Africa is working to strengthen its regional justice system, Tunisia’s move feels like a step in the wrong direction.

The Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU) is demanding answers—calling for transparency, African Union intervention, and stronger advocacy to protect the rights of ordinary Tunisians.

This is not just about one country. It’s about the soul of African justice. Legal minds, policymakers, and human rights defenders must speak up before more doors begin to close.

Let’s not watch justice slip away in silence.

Source: https://www.lawyersofafrica.org/