At the 89th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the Centre for Human Rights, Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria, raised concerns about xenophobia and third-country deportations to African states. In an oral statement, the Centre’s Assistant Director (Dr Sabelo Gumedze) called on African states to address xenophobic violence, discrimination and intimidation, while urging the Commission to engage Equatorial Guinea on the treatment and legal status of third-country deportees.
The statement highlighted serious human rights concerns, including reports of ill-treatment, restricted access to legal representation and healthcare, and barriers to international protection procedures.The Centre called for stronger continental action against xenophobia, safeguards against unlawful refoulement, and regional guidance on third-country deportations.
Migrants, refugees and asylum seekers do not cease to be rights-holders because they cross a border.
Dr Sabelo Gumedze
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