The aim of the course is to provide a critical examination of the structures and processes of the African regional systems for the promotion and protection of human rights. We will consider the role of the African Union and the regional institutions such as the New Partnership for African Development and focus in particular on the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, the work of its Commission and the impact of the specific frameworks relating to women and children. A recurrent theme throughout the module is: how fit for purpose are the principles and processes enshrined in the documents for African polities around the continent?