Fourth International Human Rights Forum of regional human rights courts held in Arusha
On 3 and 4 March 2026, the fourth International Human Rights Forum between the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights, the European Court of Human Rights and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights took place in Arusha, the United Republic of Tanzania.
During the forum, which brought together judges and staff from the three regional courts, the European Court of Human Rights was represented by its Vice-President and judge elected in respect of Norway, Arnfinn Bårdsen; the judge elected in respect of Germany, Anja Seibert-Fohr; and Deputy Registrar Abel Campos.
The opening speech of the President of the Court highlighted the importance of the Forum as an excellent opportunity to share knowledge and deepen ties. It also underlined the need for cooperation between the regional courts, for judicial unity, and for continued dialogue on case-law.
During the Forum, the Vice-President Bårdsen elaborated on the topics of “The resilience of democratic systems in the face of crises and the role of regional courts” and “Jurisprudential developments on climate change”. He also delivered closing remarks, where he noted the commitment “to the noble calling of protecting democracy, the rule of law and human rights.”
Judge Seibert-Fohr spoke on the topic of “Digital surveillance and its impact on freedom of expression and privacy” and moderated a discussion on “The impact of political, economic and social crises on the rule of law and democratic institutions in Africa.”
The Deputy Registrar moderated a panel discussion on “Challenges to freedom of expression in a democratic society.”
The three regional courts also adopted the “Arusha Declaration,” agreeing, among other things, to continue and consolidate the International Human Rights Forum of the three regional courts. The next Forum will be organised by the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg in July 2027.
During the Forum, a Memorandum of Understanding was also signed by the courts. Through this Memorandum, the courts agreed to cooperate on a range of issues to enhance their shared objective of promoting and protecting human rights internationally, in a manner beneficial to the Member States of the African Union, the Council of Europe and the Organization of American States. The Memorandum was signed on behalf of the European Court of Human Rights by Vice-President Bårdsen.