Networked for Change: Collective and Horizontal Approaches to Combating Torture in Africa

In Africa, the fight against torture remains urgent, especially in places of deprivation of liberty, where systemic abuse, impunity, and weak accountability mechanisms persist. Civil society organizations across the continent, as shown in the experiences of IMLU, CACIT, AUDF, and CIDDH, are implementing survivor-centered, rights-based responses including litigation, monitoring, psychosocial care, and advocacy. These interventions have greater impact when they occur within a strong, supportive regional and international network.

However, traditional dynamics between Global South and Global North actors often remain donor-driven, hierarchical, and prescriptive—undermining horizontal collaboration. This webinar challenges that model and presents the SOS-Torture Network as an example of a decolonial, peer-based, and mutually reinforcing alliance. OMCT, while based in the Global North, serves not as a donor but as an enabler, convener, and co-strategists - supporting African-led efforts, sharing platforms, and reinforcing local ownership.
 

Languages spoken: English & French
Interpretation available: EN / FR