conferences

African Commission Training 2026 — Defender Skills

The African Commission's 89th session training is open for civil society actors. Apply by July 26, 2026, to enhance your defender skills. The in-person training is organised by DefendDefenders, Front Line Defenders, and ISHR.

deadline: July 26, 2026
funding: Fully funded (flights, accommodation, food covered)
host: DefendDefenders, Front Line Defenders, ISHR, ACDHRS
duration: approx. 5-6 days, in-person
apply-url: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/019f4b64b9007d56bf8996bce48b87c5

The African Commission's 89th session is approaching, and to equip African defenders, DefendDefenders, Front Line Defenders, and ISHR are hosting an in-person training. This training is open to civil society actors and representatives from African or international organisations working on Africa. The deadline for application is July 26, 2026, and a total of one training session is being organised.

Overview

The training is designed to equip African defenders with the necessary skills to effectively engage with the African Commission. The in-person training will take place ahead of the African Commission's 89th session.

  • Civil society actors and representatives from African or international organisations working on Africa are eligible to apply.

What to Expect

The training will provide a platform for African defenders to enhance their skills and knowledge on engaging with the African Commission.

  • In-person training sessions with experienced facilitators.
  • Opportunities to network with other defenders and organisations.
  • Information on the African Commission's 89th session and how to effectively engage with it.

Who Can Participate

  • Civil society actors.
  • Representatives from African civil society organisations.
  • Representatives from international organisations working on Africa.

How to Apply/Register

To apply for the training, interested candidates should submit their applications by July 26, 2026. The application process is currently open, and candidates can find more information on the application requirements and procedure.

  • Submit your application by the deadline of July 26, 2026.
  • Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the training.
  • Follow the application procedure as outlined by the organisers.

Why Attend

The training offers a valuable opportunity for African defenders to develop their skills and knowledge, enhancing their ability to engage with the African Commission effectively. By attending the training, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the Commission's work and how to navigate its mechanisms, ultimately strengthening their advocacy efforts.

The training also provides a platform for networking and collaboration among defenders and organisations, fostering a sense of community and cooperation. This can lead to stronger, more cohesive advocacy efforts and a greater impact on human rights issues in Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline for applying to the training?

The deadline for applying to the training is July 26, 2026.

Who is eligible to apply for the training?

Civil society actors, representatives from African civil society organisations, and representatives from international organisations working on Africa are eligible to apply.

What will the training cover?

The training will cover topics related to engaging with the African Commission, including its mechanisms and how to effectively navigate them.

Is the training in-person or online?

The training is an in-person training.

Who are the organisers of the training?

The training is being organised by DefendDefenders, Front Line Defenders, and ISHR.

What is the purpose of the training?

The purpose of the training is to equip African defenders with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively engage with the African Commission.