African Human Rights Law Review (Law/Social/Political crossover)
African Human Rights Law Review (Law/Social/Political crossover) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Sociology of Human Rights Violations: A Comparative Analysis of State-Sponsored Violence in Ghana and the United Kingdom
State-sponsored violence remains a persistent challenge to human rights protection in both developing and developed democracies. While existing research has largely focused on single-country analyses or legalistic treaty-compliance approaches, comparative sociological studies examining how historical trajectories, institutional practices, and accountability mechanisms shape state violence across different political contexts remain limited. This study addresses this gap by undertaking a comparative analysis of state-sponsored violence in Ghana and the United Kingdom. The study adopted a qualitative comparative case study design. A purposive sample of 22 participants was drawn from Ghana (n=12) and the United Kingdom (n=10), including human rights activists, legal practitioners, journalists, academics, security experts, policing scholars, community organisers, and civil liberty representatives. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews, and thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo software version 16. Key findings revealed that in Ghana, state violence is direct, forceful, and politically visible manifesting as tear gas, live ammunition, and rough arrests during elections and protests while in the United Kingdom violence is institutionalised and less visible, operating through surveillance, stop-and-search practices, and discretionary policing that disproportionately affects minority communities. Political influence shapes security behaviour in both contexts: directly in Ghana through government interests during political tensions, and indirectly in the United Kingdom through policy frameworks and security strategies, yet both forms remain legible to citizens. Accountability systems in both countries frustrate citizens because outcomes are slow, invisible, and rarely lead to meaningful consequences, challenging the assumption that developed democracies have resolved the accountability problem. The study concludes that while the forms of state-sponsored violence differ, the underlying problems of political influence, accountability failures, inconsistent application of laws, and historical institutional continuity are common to both countries. Legal compliance does not equate to perceived legitimacy, and the gap between Ghana and the United Kingdom in citizen frustration with state violence may be smaller than previously assumed. One key recommendation is that oversight bodies in both countries, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice in Ghana and the Independent Office for Police Conduct in the United Kingdom should improve the transparency and visibility of investigation outcomes, as the invisibility of results erodes public trust more than procedural delays alone.
Platform Accountability and Content Moderation
This article examines Platform Accountability and Content Moderation: Hate Speech and Incitement in African Contexts: Climate Change Dimensions with a focused emphasis on Democratic Republic of Congo within the field of Law. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Deradicalisation Programmes in East Africa
This article examines Deradicalisation Programmes in East Africa: Design, Implementation, and Effectiveness: A South Sudan Case Study with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of Law. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Lustration and Transitional Justice: Vetting Former Combatants and Regime Officials with a focused emphasis on Madagascar within the field of Law. It is structured as a conference paper that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Human Trafficking for Labour Exploitation
This article examines Human Trafficking for Labour Exploitation: East African Workers in the Middle East: Community-Based Perspectives with a focused emphasis on Equatorial Guinea within the field of Law. It is structured as a comparative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Hacking of Electoral Systems: Real Threats, Perceived Vulnerabilities, and Mitigation: Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic with a focused emphasis on Morocco within the field of Law. It is structured as a working paper that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Outreach and Public Communication in International Transitional Justice Mechanisms
This article examines Outreach and Public Communication in International Transitional Justice Mechanisms: Accountability, Transparency, and Reform with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia within the field of Law. It is structured as a policy brief that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2024 AJLS-HRL https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Weapons
This article examines Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Weapons: Ethical and Legal Challenges for African States with a focused emphasis on Kenya within the field of Law. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Gender Justice and Transitional Mechanisms
This article examines Gender Justice and Transitional Mechanisms: Addressing Conflict-Related Sexual Violence: Fiscal Dimensions and Revenue Implications with a focused emphasis on Kenya within the field of Law. It is structured as a theoretical framework article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cyber Threats and Critical Infrastructure Security in East Africa
This article examines Cyber Threats and Critical Infrastructure Security in East Africa: Towards a Research Agenda with a focused emphasis on Kenya within the field of Law. It is structured as a ethnographic study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Drug Trafficking and Organised Crime in East Africa
This article examines Drug Trafficking and Organised Crime in East Africa: Routes, Networks, and Law Enforcement: Power, Agency, and Structural Change with a focused emphasis on Egypt within the field of Law. It is structured as a policy analysis article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Deportation and Forced Return: International Law, Bilateral Agreements, and Practice: Political Economy Dimensions with a focused emphasis on Central African Republic within the field of Law. It is structured as a policy analysis article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Deradicalisation Programmes in East Africa: Design, Implementation, and Effectiveness with a focused emphasis on Togo within the field of Law. It is structured as a action research study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Nexus Between Humanitarian, Development, and Peace
This article examines Nexus Between Humanitarian, Development, and Peace: Operational Realities and Conceptual Tensions: Beyond the Liberal Peace Framework with a focused emphasis on Algeria within the field of Law. It is structured as a policy brief that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Charcoal and Conflict: The Political Economy of Deforestation and Armed Group Financing: Historical Antecedents and Contemporary Relevance with a focused emphasis on Togo within the field of Law. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Freedom of Religion and Intercommunal Violence
This article examines Freedom of Religion and Intercommunal Violence: Legal Frameworks and Enforcement Gaps: Historical Antecedents and Contemporary Relevance with a focused emphasis on South Africa within the field of Law. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Water Sanitation Technologies and Child Mortality Reduction
In northern Ghana's rural communities, child mortality rates remain high, with water sanitation technologies playing a critical role in mitigating these risks. A theoretical framework was developed through literature review, expert consultation, and secondary data analysis focusing on socio-economic factors and technological interventions. Theoretical insights suggest that comprehensive water sanitation solutions combined with educational outreach can significantly impact child survival outcomes in rural settings. Policy makers should prioritise the integration of water sanitation technologies and public health education into rural development strategies to enhance child mortality reduction efforts.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Government-Sponsored Vocational Training for Urban Youth in Nairobi
Government-sponsored vocational training programmes have been implemented globally to address youth unemployment and skill gaps. In Nairobi, Kenya, such initiatives aim to prepare urban youth for employment. A survey research design was employed to collect data from participants who completed vocational training programmes. The survey included questions about pre- and post-training assessments, current job status, and educational qualifications. Of the respondents, 45% reported an increase in their employment entry rates after completing the courses, with a notable trend towards higher qualification levels among those who completed additional training modules. The analysis suggests that government-sponsored vocational training can positively influence both employment opportunities and professional qualifications for urban youth in Nairobi. Future studies should explore long-term outcomes and potential disparities by socio-economic backgrounds to inform more effective policy interventions. vocational training, urban youth, employment entry rates, qualification gains
Access to justice is a critical issue in urban slums of Kenya, where vulnerable populations often face significant barriers. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis was used to evaluate current policies and their impact on urban slum residents. Interviews revealed a high proportion (85%) of respondents experienced difficulties accessing legal aid, primarily due to financial constraints and lack of awareness about available resources. Current policies are inadequate in addressing the specific needs of vulnerable populations in urban slums. There is a need for tailored interventions that include legal education and affordable support services. Develop comprehensive legal aid programmes specifically targeting urban slum communities, integrate these programmes into existing social welfare systems, and increase public awareness campaigns on available justice mechanisms.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Impact Evaluation of Community-Based Child Nutrition Programmes in Nairobi Slums
Community-based child nutrition programmes in Nairobi slums aim to address malnutrition through targeted interventions. Qualitative data collection methods including interviews, observations, and document reviews were employed to analyse feeding practices and child growth outcomes. A notable trend observed was an increase in breastfed infants under six months from 25% to 40%, indicating improved adherence to recommended feeding guidelines. The programmes have positively influenced feeding behaviors, contributing to better nutritional status among children aged up to two years. Future interventions should prioritise continuous support and education for caregivers on appropriate feeding practices.
Cyberlaw and Data Protection Dynamics in Southern Africa
Cyberlaw and data protection have emerged as critical areas of legal reform in Southern Africa, influenced by global trends and specific socio-economic contexts. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilising semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders including legal practitioners, policymakers, and industry representatives. Data analysis is guided by thematic content analysis. Interviews revealed significant disparities in the enforcement of data protection regulations across different sectors, with healthcare being one area where compliance was notably lower than expected. The qualitative insights underscore gaps in current regulatory frameworks and highlight the need for more targeted interventions to improve data protection standards in Kenya. Policy recommendations include strengthening enforcement mechanisms, enhancing public awareness campaigns, and integrating international best practices into local legal frameworks.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable Development Law in Cape Verde
Sustainable Development Law in Cape Verde is a critical area of legal discourse that seeks to balance environmental conservation with socio-economic development goals. The analysis relies on secondary data sources including legislative texts, case laws, and scholarly articles published within the last decade. The integration of sustainable development laws has led to notable improvements in environmental protection and socio-economic resilience, although challenges remain in enforcement and public awareness. Further research is recommended to assess the impact of recent legal reforms on real-world outcomes and identify areas for improvement in policy implementation.
Cyberlaw and Data Protection in Southern Africa
Southern Africa is a region characterized by diverse legal systems and frameworks for cyberlaw and data protection, with varying degrees of implementation across its countries. The study employs a comprehensive literature review approach, synthesizing existing legal documents, official guidelines, and relevant international best practices as primary sources. Secondary data from governmental websites and industry reports are also utilised to provide an overview of Angola's current landscape. A notable finding is the absence of a unified national cyberlaw framework in Angola, with fragmented regulations at both federal and provincial levels. Despite efforts towards harmonization, significant gaps remain in enforcing data protection standards across different sectors. This survey highlights the need for coherent legislative measures to address these inconsistencies. The government should prioritise developing comprehensive national cyberlaw legislation that integrates existing fragmented regulations, ensuring uniformity and effectiveness in protecting citizens' digital rights and privacy.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Rural Women's Adoption of Climate Resilient Crops in Coastal Mozambique
This study examines the adoption rates of climate resilient crops by rural women farmers in coastal regions of Mozambique. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to assess adoption rates and farmer perceptions. Rural women farmers showed a significant increase (35%) in the adoption of climate-resilient crops compared to baseline levels, indicating improved resilience against drought and floods. The intervention was effective in increasing the uptake of climate-resilient crop varieties by rural women farmers in coastal Mozambique. Policy recommendations include scaling up support for farmer education programmes focused on climate-smart agriculture and providing access to financial assistance for seed purchases.
Impact Evaluation of Community Mobilization Programmes in Malaria Control
Community mobilization programmes have been implemented in malaria control efforts across Africa, aiming to enhance community participation and effectiveness. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis to assess programme effectiveness and stakeholder satisfaction. Community participation increased by 45% in malaria prevention activities post-programme implementation, highlighting the efficacy of mobilization strategies. While significant progress was made, challenges such as resource allocation and community engagement sustainability remain key areas for future intervention. Enhanced training for local leaders, strategic planning for long-term sustainability, and robust monitoring mechanisms are recommended to sustain malaria control efforts.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comparative Frameworks in East African Competition Law Enforcement
The East African Community (EAC) has established a common competition law framework to harmonize regulations across its member states in Kenya and other countries. The research employs both qualitative interviews and quantitative data analysis to explore perceptions of law enforcement effectiveness and compliance practices in Kenya's legal system. Interviews revealed that while all EAC countries aim for uniformity, the level of implementation varies significantly, with Kenya demonstrating a more robust framework due to its proactive regulatory approach. The study concludes that harmonization efforts are hindered by varying enforcement capacities among member states. Policy recommendations include enhanced training and resources for law enforcement agencies. Develop and implement targeted training programmes for judicial officers and prosecutors in EAC countries, focusing on the nuances of competition law in their respective jurisdictions.
Sustainable Agribusiness Practices Among Smallholder Women Farmers in Southern Ghana
This study examines sustainable agribusiness practices among smallholder women farmers in southern Ghana. The research employs a comparative study approach, utilising secondary data from government agricultural reports and interviews with women farmers across southern Ghana. Data analysis includes thematic coding and statistical comparison to identify trends and patterns in practice implementation. A notable finding is the significant improvement in crop yields among participating women farmers when provided with access to irrigation systems (up to 15% increase). The study concludes that legal support, including land rights recognition and extension services, significantly enhances the effectiveness of sustainable agribusiness practices for women farmers. Policy recommendations include strengthening gender-specific agricultural policies, promoting access to irrigation technology, and enhancing community-based support networks.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Corporate Compliance Flaws in Environmental Law Enforcement
Nigeria's environmental laws have been in place for decades, yet enforcement remains inadequate due to a complex interplay between regulatory bodies and corporate entities. The analysis draws upon existing literature, case studies, and interviews conducted with stakeholders including government officials, non-governmental organizations, and affected communities. Corporate entities frequently circumvent compliance requirements through strategic loopholes and lobbying efforts, leading to persistent environmental degradation despite regulatory oversight. The review suggests the need for more stringent enforcement measures, enhanced transparency in corporate operations, and increased public participation in monitoring environmental performance. Nigeria, Corporate Accountability, Environmental Law Enforcement, NEITI