Nigeria Loses Out as Ghana, Malawi, Others Join UN Human Rights Council

In a recent election to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Nigeria was notably absent from the list of successful countries, while its African counterparts, Ghana and Malawi, secured seats. This development has sparked discussions on Nigeria’s human rights record and its position in international diplomacy.

The Role of the UN Human Rights Council

The UNHRC, composed of 47 member states, plays a critical role in promoting and protecting human rights worldwide. Member countries are responsible for addressing human rights violations, setting global standards, and reviewing the human rights performance of nations. A seat on the council provides significant influence over global human rights policies and highlights a country’s commitment to upholding these values.

The recent election saw Ghana, Malawi, and other nations join the council, reinforcing their positions as emerging leaders in the human rights arena. However, Nigeria, despite having been a member in previous terms, failed to secure a seat, raising questions about its human rights trajectory and global image.

Nigeria’s Bid for a Seat: What Went Wrong?

Nigeria has long sought to maintain a seat on the UNHRC as part of its broader strategy to assert itself as a leading voice in Africa and on the global stage. In previous years, the country successfully held a position on the council, using it as a platform to contribute to important human rights discussions and decisions. However, in this election cycle, Nigeria lost out to other contenders, signaling a shift in international opinion.

One of the primary reasons Nigeria may have missed out is its current human rights record, which has faced significant criticism both domestically and internationally. Key issues that may have affected its bid include:

1. Allegations of Human Rights Violations: Nigeria has been criticized for its handling of human rights issues, particularly in relation to the EndSARS protests in 2020, where security forces were accused of using excessive force against peaceful demonstrators. International human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have documented reports of police brutality, unlawful detentions, and extrajudicial killings, tarnishing the country’s reputation.
2. Insecurity and Violence: The ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, especially in the northern and eastern regions, have also played a role in shaping the country’s international image. The Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, and clashes between herders and farmers continue to result in civilian casualties, displacement, and human rights abuses. The government’s perceived inability to effectively address these issues may have weakened its standing in the UNHRC election.
3. Lack of Diplomatic Leverage: In comparison to other African nations like Ghana and Malawi, Nigeria may have struggled to garner the diplomatic support necessary to secure a seat. Countries seeking election to the UNHRC often engage in intense diplomatic lobbying, securing endorsements from other nations. Ghana, with its stable democracy and efforts to improve human rights, likely presented a more favorable image. Similarly, Malawi’s recent democratic reforms and efforts to strengthen its human rights framework may have worked in its favor.

Why Ghana, Malawi, and Others Succeeded

Ghana’s and Malawi’s election to the UNHRC represents a growing recognition of their commitment to improving human rights. Ghana, in particular, has made significant strides in enhancing civil liberties, ensuring freedom of expression, and advancing democratic governance. Its leadership in regional peacekeeping and conflict resolution has also earned it respect within the international community.

Malawi, under the leadership of President Lazarus Chakwera, has focused on judicial reforms, anti-corruption efforts, and bolstering human rights protections. These reforms have garnered international praise, helping Malawi secure a seat on the council. Both nations presented a stronger case for membership, positioning themselves as advocates for human rights in Africa and beyond.

Other countries elected to the council this year, such as Indonesia and France, have also demonstrated strong human rights credentials, further emphasizing the importance of a robust record when seeking a seat.

Implications for Nigeria

Nigeria’s failure to secure a seat on the UNHRC carries several implications for its international standing and domestic human rights efforts. Firstly, it raises concerns about the country’s image as a leader in Africa. Nigeria has traditionally been viewed as a key player in African diplomacy, and its absence from the council could signal a diminishing influence in global human rights discussions.

Secondly, the loss may serve as a wake-up call for Nigerian authorities to address the country’s human rights challenges more effectively. Human rights organizations and civil society groups in Nigeria have long called for reforms in the security sector, greater accountability for human rights abuses, and improved protections for vulnerable populations. The government’s failure to make significant progress in these areas may have contributed to its exclusion from the council.

Reactions to the Outcome

Reactions to Nigeria’s loss have been mixed. Some officials in Nigeria have downplayed the significance of the election result, emphasizing that the country will continue to engage with the UNHRC and other international bodies on human rights issues. However, others see the outcome as a reflection of the need for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s human rights landscape.

Human rights advocates in Nigeria have pointed to the election result as evidence that the government must prioritize human rights and democratic governance. “This is a clear message from the international community that Nigeria needs to improve its human rights record,” said a spokesperson from a leading civil society organization. “The government must take steps to address police brutality, ensure accountability for security forces, and protect the rights of all citizens.”

The Way Forward for Nigeria

In the wake of this loss, Nigeria has an opportunity to reassess its human rights strategy and make necessary improvements. Key areas for focus should include:

1. Police and Security Reforms: Addressing issues of police brutality and ensuring accountability for human rights abuses by security forces will be crucial. Implementing reforms that promote transparency and respect for the rule of law can help restore trust in the government’s commitment to human rights.
2. Addressing Insecurity: The government must also intensify efforts to combat insurgency and violence across the country, while ensuring that human rights are protected in the process. A focus on the welfare of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and protecting civilians in conflict zones will be critical.
3. Strengthening Democratic Governance: Nigeria should work towards strengthening its democratic institutions, ensuring freedom of expression, and protecting the rights of journalists and activists. Demonstrating a genuine commitment to democratic values will help Nigeria improve its standing in future international elections.

Conclusion

Nigeria’s failure to secure a seat on the UN Human Rights Council underscores the challenges it faces in maintaining its position as a leader in human rights and international diplomacy. While Ghana, Malawi, and others have made strides in promoting human rights, Nigeria must confront its own issues to regain the trust of the international community. With concerted efforts towards reform, Nigeria can work towards a more positive human rights record and potentially secure a seat in future elections.