Trade, Human Rights and Environmental Sustainability in Africa with Special Reference to the Extractive Sector

Abstract

This chapter investigates the possible impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on human rights and environmental sustainability, with a focus on the extractive industries sector. There is clear evidence of some egregious violations of human rights and threats to environmental sustainability linked to activities of the extractive industries and multinational corporations (MNCs) in Africa. Unfortunately, there exists no African Union (AU) normative and institutional framework regulating these harmful activities. The main recourse is various AU Conventions protecting and promoting the environment in Africa. The chapter argues, among others, for the development of continental legal and policy framework for mining, human rights and environmental protection in Africa. This framework will be vital to promoting sustainability, human rights and environmental justice in Africa.