Human rights institutions from across Africa are sounding the alarm over the rapid erosion of civic space in West Africa. The warning came during the 8th Regional Forum of the Network of African National Human Rights Institutions (NANHRI), held in Banjul, The Gambia.

The three-day meeting brought together rights advocates, government officials, and international partners to discuss strategies to safeguard democratic freedoms and protect human rights defenders.

Organizers say the discussions are particularly timely as the region faces increasing restrictions on free speech, assembly, and association. The forum concludes today ahead of the 85th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.