This timely engagement brings together national and international partners, including human rights institutions from across Africa and beyond, to reflect on the growing threat posed by disinformation to constitutional rights, democratic participation, access to services, and social cohesion.
The two-day programme features leading academics, journalists, government departments, and representatives from civil society. The Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights will address the summit, alongside other notable speakers from the SAHRC, the Independent Electoral Commission, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, and partner National Human Rights Institutions from the African continent and beyond.
The SAHRC has warned that disinformation is no longer just a matter of public opinion but poses real and measurable risks to human rights — from misinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic and election periods, to false narratives undermining gender rights, health, education, and public trust. The Commission will use the summit to deepen its analysis, advance dialogue, and formulate recommendations in line with its mandate under Sections 13 and 18 of the SAHRC Act to advise Parliament and the Executive on human rights risks and responses.
The summit will be livestreamed on the SAHRC’s YouTube Channel to ensure broad public access.
- Date: 8th & 9th of July 2025
- Time: 09H00 – 16H30
- Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, Gqeberha
Livestream on YouTube: @SAHRC1
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ISSUED BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION