This in-depth study of the African Charter of Human and Peoples' Rights assesses the effectiveness of the Charter and of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights in its formative years. It also compares the Charter with other human rights instruments. The author asserts that respect for human rights made the existence of African societies possible despite the era of gross violation, and that the survival of African societies depends on respect for human rights. While conceding the universality of human rights, the author underscores African specificities and peculiarities. He...