10 December 2025 | Nairobi — As the world marks the 77th anniversary of Human Rights Day, the Jesuit Justice and Ecology Network Africa (JENA) reflects on the enduring legacy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted in 1948 in the wake of global conflict and profound human suffering. Its central message—that every human being possesses inherent dignity and inalienable rights—remains as urgent today as it was then.

This year’s global theme, “Human Rights – Our Everyday Essentials,” underscores the fundamental rights that allow individuals and communities to thrive: the right to life, security, meaningful participation, truth, health, education, decent work, freedom of movement and migration, and the right to live free from fear and oppression. JENA reiterates that these are not privileges but universal entitlements that states, societies, and institutions are morally bound to uphold.

Across Africa and Madagascar, the fragility of these essentials has become increasingly visible. Recent political shifts have brought both hope and concern, revealing persistent tensions that threaten civic space, transparency, and accountability. In several countries, controversial electoral processes, voter intimidation, contested results, corruption, and tragic loss of life have raised alarms about the integrity of democratic systems meant to protect citizens’ rights. The principle of Subsidiarity, which demands that decision-making respect and empower local communities, has in many cases been neglected or deliberately undermined.

These challenges reflect broader regional trends: the erosion of democratic norms, shrinking freedoms of expression and assembly, and the continued marginalisation of vulnerable populations.

Grounded in the moral teachings of Christianity JENA affirms that the dignity of every person, created in the image and likeness of God, is non-negotiable. This conviction lies at the heart of Catholic Social Teaching (CST), which offers a much-needed ethical compass for navigating the continent’s political and social complexities.

JENA stresses that no political objective, economic interest, or security justification can excuse the ongoing violations of fundamental human rights across the region. The growing disregard for the Common Good must be challenged. Governments are called to protect the well-being of all people rather than serve the interests of a powerful minority while millions suffer poverty and exclusion.

The Network further urges Solidarity with refugees, migrants, and displaced persons—many forced to flee not only violence or persecution, but also extreme climate events. This reality highlights the urgent link between human rights and ecological justice throughout Africa and Madagascar.

On this Human Rights Day, JENA calls on African governments, regional bodies, and the international community to renew their commitment to human dignity by strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring transparency and accountability, and designing policies grounded in the Preferential Option for the Poor. Women, children, migrants, and marginalised communities must be at the forefront of political and social priorities.

JENA also appeals to religious leaders, civil society organisations, and all people of goodwill to defend civic space, accompany vulnerable populations, and speak out against abuses of power. Human rights become a lived reality only when people actively claim, protect, and practise them.

As an organisation rooted in justice, ecological stewardship, and participatory governance, JENA renews its mission to collaborate with partners, advocate for the voiceless, and engage governments constructively for the sake of a more just and humane society.

May this Human Rights Day inspire renewed courage to safeguard what is essential: human dignity, the integrity of creation, and the collective hope for a just, peaceful, and life-giving future for Africa and Madagascar.