The Right of Peaceful Assembly
Everyone has the right of peaceful assembly under customary and treaty-based human rights law. Restrictions on the exercise of the right must comply with the principles of legality, necessity, and proportionality.
In Focus
Sudan
Peaceful protesters were targeted with lethal force by state agents in violation of international law in protests in 2019.
Summary
Sudan should ensure the right of peaceful assembly is respected and protected and that police use of force is restricted as international law requires.
In Focus
South Africa
South Africa should restrict use of firearms during assemblies in accordance with international law and protect the rights of human rights defenders to freedom of peaceful assembly.
Summary
Latest News
Many States have derogated from the right of assembly due to COVID-19
Numerous States have derogated from their respective treaty obligations to respect and protect the right of assembly owing to the COVID-19 Pandemic and many are banning all public gatherings for a period of weeks or even months.
12.11.20
Nigerian Police reportedly open fire on unarmed demonstrators in Lagos
Buildings have been set aflame and there were reports of gunfire in Nigeria's biggest city after demonstrators were shot at a protest.
23.10.20
Human Rights Committee adopts General Comment on Right of Peaceful Assembly
On 20 July 2020, the Human Rights Committee adopted its General Comment 37 on the right of peaceful assembly protected under Article 21 of the 1966 Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
02.08.20
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