The Committee holds two ordinary sessions each year. The duration of the session varies in each case from 10 to 15 days depending on needs and finance. The Secretary of the African Commission must communicate to the members the date and venue of the ordinary session at least 60 days ahead of the session.
The 44th Ordinary Session of the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC) is fast approaching, and it promises to be a pivotal event in the ongoing quest to safeguard and advance children's rights across the African continent. Scheduled to be held from 2nd - 12th October 2024, this session will cover an array of crucial topics and reports. Let's take a closer look at the highlights of this highly anticipated event.
Consideration of Periodic Reports
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The Periodic Report of Namibia.
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The Periodic Report of Zambia.
The Committee will consider Communications
- Implementation Hearing on Communication No: 0012/Com/001/2019- Legal and Human Rights Centre, Centre for Reproductive Rights Vs the United Republic of Tanzania.
- Communication No: 0019/Com/001/2022- The Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa and Mr. Solomon Joojo Cobbinah onbehalf of schoolgirls living along the River Offinin the Ashanti Region against the Republic of Ghana.
- Communication No:0017/Com/001/2021- Child Rights and Rehabilitation Network, Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa and Centre for Human Rights (On Behalf of Children Affected by Witchcraft Accusations in Nigeria) against the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Presentation and Discussion on Critical Topics
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The Role of CSOs in Addressing Violence Against Children (VAC): Popularizing the VAC Guidelines and Charting Further Actions
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The Roles of Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Ending Violence Against Children (VAC) and Implementing the Guidelines.
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AU Continental Early Warning System.
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Monitoring tools to assess Member States' performance in addressing Children Without Parental Care (CWPC).
Launch of ACERWC Initiatives
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Launching the Policy Mapping Report on Prevention of Violence Against Children in Schools.
Conclusion
The 44th Ordinary Session of ACERWC promises to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing journey to protect and advance children's rights in Africa. With the consideration of periodic and complementary reports, discussions on critical topics, and the launch of essential initiatives and general comments, this session reaffirms the organization's dedication to the cause of safeguarding the rights and welfare of children across the African continent. We look forward to the outcomes and impact of this significant event.
For more information: https://www.acerwc.africa/en/sessions/44th-ordinary-session