CALS and the Right2Protest Project host the second annual Activist Symposium
- Mazi Choshane
The second annual Activist Symposium brings together human rights defenders from around the continent and will run from 1 - 3 August 2024
The Centre for Applied Legal Studies and the Right2Protest Project are pleased to announce the Second Annual Activist Symposium themed “Building Regional Solidarity Against Repression in Africa” in partnership with Digital Society Africa and Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW), and the Coalition Against SLAPPs in Africa (CASA). This event will take place from 1-3 August 2024 in Johannesburg, South Africa, and aims to unite activists from across the continent to address the escalating challenges posed by repressive regimes.
Africa is experiencing a concerning rise in repressive tactics that stifle dissent and undermine democratic principles. From internet shutdowns and arbitrary arrests to Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation (SLAPP suits) and the erosion of the freedom of association, activists are under siege. This symposium seeks to provide a platform for activists to share experiences, develop strategies, and build solidarity to counter these threats.
The event will feature workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, focusing on regional trends of repression, effective response strategies, mental wellness, and digital security. A highlight will be the launch of the Anti-repression Activist Toolkit, a comprehensive resource designed to equip activists with practical tools and knowledge to protect themselves and their work.
By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the symposium aims to establish regional working groups to address the ongoing challenges faced by activists.
For more information about the symposium, please contact:
From the Right2Protest Project:
Omhle Ntshingila: Omhle.Ntshingila@wits.ac.za
From the Centre for Applied Legal Studies:
Sithuthukile Mkhize: Sithuthukile.Mkhize@wits.ac.za