Which doctrine is emphasized by the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights?

The doctrine emphasized by the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights is collective rights. This focus reflects a deep understanding of the unique social and cultural contexts of African societies, where the community often plays a central role in individual rights and well-being.

Collective rights underline that certain rights are held not just by individuals, but also by groups, particularly marginalized communities, ethnic groups, and indigenous peoples. This approach is especially significant on the African continent, where the struggles for self-determination and communal identity are often linked to broader human rights issues. The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights highlights the importance of collective rights by promoting the rights of peoples to freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development.

By emphasizing collective rights, the African Court addresses issues such as land rights, cultural preservation, and community-based resource management, which are vital for many African communities. This doctrine helps in recognizing and protecting these vital communal interests that might otherwise be overlooked in a more individualistic interpretation of human rights.