African Union i. ii. Provide instances where the involvement of the UN has resulted in the reduction and quick resolution of conflicts in your country Assess the effectiveness of these institutions in terms of the resources (human, financial and logistics) that have been deployed in conflict resolution in your country. To what extent are the interventions of these bodies accepted and deemed legitimate. Suggest what these international organizations need to do differently to enhance their role in resolving conflicts in Africa Objective 4: Promotion and Protection of Civil and Political Rights as enshrined in African and International Human Rights Instruments The promotion of cultural, civil and political liberties ensures that the integrity and rights of people are respected by the state which should also take necessary steps to protect citizens‟ rights from violation either by its agents and/or a third party. In this connection, the institutionalization of a system of due process involving competent judges who are able to apply the law independent of outside pressures and with impartiality is critical. Indicators related to this objective are underpinned by the principle of ensuring that the will of the people constitutes the basis of authority of the government. The popular will is measured, inter alia, through the right of citizens to participate directly and freely in the election of representatives and by the provision and effective enforcement of basic human rights. An effective civil society network is vital for the protection and promotion of rights. Consequently, this objective attempts to measure the vibrancy and influence of civil society. QUESTION 1: civil rights? What measures have been put in place to promote and enforce INDICATORS: i. Identify legal provisions that recognize and guarantee basic civil rights, including but not limited to the following: Right to information; Freedom of association; Freedom of expression and media freedom; Freedom of religion; ii. Describe whether the government respects these rights in practice and whether there are effective tools for their enforcement. QUESTION 2: What steps have been taken to facilitate due process and equal access to justice for all? INDICATORS: i. ii. iii. Assess whether prosecutors are independent of political control and influence in practice. Assess whether defendants have an effective right to independent, competent counsel. Describe, where applicable, instances where an independent counsel is provided to a defendant at public expense if he/she cannot afford his/her own. 19