International Human Rights in Post-Colonial Africa: Universality in Perspective

This study argues that post-colonial African societies are bureaucratic modern states and capitalist societies that can apply international human rights standards (IHRS). It challenges the cultural relativism plea in post-colonial Africa and advocates for the universality of human rights standards, despite global cultural heterogeneity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2024
Publisher: University of Wales Press

This study makes three interconnected claims about international human rights standards (IHRS) and their applicability to post-colonial African societies. Firstly, it argues that post-colonial African societies can be considered bureaucratic modern states and capitalist societies, making them suitable for the application of IHRS. This assertion is based on the Modified Modernisation Theory, which suggests that IHRS can be adapted to different societal contexts.

Secondly, the study challenges the prevailing notion of cultural relativism in post-colonial Africa. It argues that current arguments for cultural relativism are overly focused on reified assumptions about the minimal role of the individual. In reality, every state relies on its individual subjects for its institutional and socio-politico-economic development, just as every individual relies on the state for a more secure, fulfilling, and dignified human existence.

Thirdly, the book provides legal and moral justifications for the universality of human rights standards, despite global cultural heterogeneity. It argues that human rights are universal and apply to all individuals, regardless of their cultural background or location. The study emphasizes the importance of promoting human rights and dignity in post-colonial Africa and highlights the need for a paradigm shift in our understanding of the structural and socio-politico-economic systems of the region.

In conclusion, this study makes significant contributions to the understanding of IHRS and their applicability to post-colonial African societies. It challenges prevailing notions and provides a more nuanced and comprehensive perspective on the role of human rights in promoting social justice and human development in the region.

Dimension: 216 x 138 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781837720668