Let's Talk Human Rights

By Satang Nabaneh, Ann Hudock and Natalie Hudson

In November 2023, we gathered for the 2023 Social Practice of Human Rights, co-convening with the International Conference on the Right to Development, focused on the theme – “Decolonization and Development for Africa and People of African Descent.” This SPHR23 blog series captures the discussions and shares the learning that occurred during the conference around the themes of (1) the right to development; (2) building social movements; (3) just energy transitions; and (4) identity and belonging — as applied to Africa and the people of African descent.   

Decolonizing Development: Rethinking the Paradigm

At the heart of inclusive development is a commitment to centering marginalized voices and prioritizing justice and equity as critical forms of resistance to colonialism and neoliberalism. This fundamental ethos underscores the essence of decolonization, which was explored in this thought-provoking plenary on decolonizing development, where perspectives ranged from individual introspection to global shifts. The discussion brought insights into decolonizing development, stressing the imperative of dismantling enduring colonial influences. This necessitates a multifaceted strategy: nurturing indigenous knowledge generation in economic strategizing, prioritizing the universal right to development, and supporting women-led innovation in  STEM (science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing). The plenary speakers emphasized that engaging in dialogue and practicing critical self-reflection are crucial for navigating the complexities of decolonization and achieving truly inclusive development.

Discomfort as a catalyst for change

Drawing upon historical examples of activism on the University of Dayton campus, such as protests against apartheid and CIA recruitment on campus, the conversation underscored the importance of discomfort as a catalyst for change and advocacy. Ann Hudock, the president and CEO of Counterpart International and University of Dayton alum, stressed the significance of resilience in challenging conversations, stating, “What we need to do is really stay at the table when discussions get hard.” She argued that the process of ‘decolonization’ commences with internal reflection and self-awareness, whether in addressing personal inequities or examining one's beliefs and actions to avoid perpetuating injustices. Importantly, this commitment to long and difficult dialogue is rooted in UD’s Marianist identity.

The diverse plenary panel featured experts from different professional and geographic backgrounds, each offering unique insights into their work and approaches toward rethinking paradigms and tackling issues related to decolonization in the pursuit of human dignity.

Representing the Nawi—Afrifem Macroeconomics Collective, the executive director Crystal Simeoni engaged in a Pan-African feminist analysis of macro-level economics and the negative impact on African women and girls. By exploring issues such as sovereign debt and financialization, Crystal emphasized the importance of seeking and offering feminist alternatives to neoliberal capitalism, neocolonial infrastructures, and cis heteropatriarchy within the African context. 

Anjani Harjeven, who leads WomEng and WomHub, highlighted efforts to challenge the status quo and create inclusivity in industries and society, particularly in STEM fields. By providing opportunities for girls and women in technology and supporting female-founded businesses, Anjani stressed the need to address current forms of colonization and promote access to opportunities and funding. She discussed the importance of diversity, inclusion, and belonging in STEM fields, distinguishing between diversity (visible differences) and inclusion (feeling heard and valued). She stressed the need for systemic change to ensure everyone has a seat at the table. She notes, “And in fact, you’re not going to be able to separate them anymore. So, we’ve got to start thinking about in a world that we’re trying to create, how is it that we are lining all of those up to be able to solve the real problems that we face?” emphasizing the importance of addressing gender disparities in STEM to tackle complex global challenges effectively. The patriarchal structure makes the workplace exclusionary in both perception and reality, hindering inclusivity and development for all. We need to create spaces where individuals feel represented and empowered to pursue opportunities in a space where they can feel connected. 

Patrice Vahard, the Representative and Director of the United Nations Joint Human Rights Office (OHCHR) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, shared insights into using the “right to development” as a framework for changing the development paradigm. Stressing the importance of addressing poverty as a human rights violation, he advocated for grassroots understanding and ownership of economic, social, and cultural rights to drive meaningful change. Development is fundamentally different when conceptualized and driven from the local. He reflected on the need for a collective approach, stating, “Poverty is a human rights violation that we can get rid of, climate injustice is one of these. And such change will only come if we collectively shift the paradigm of development.”

Throughout the discussion, key themes emerged, including the importance of grassroots initiatives, youth involvement, and diversifying sources of knowledge. Speakers highlighted the necessity of meeting the youth where they are, understanding their needs, and leveraging their access to information and technology. Anjani stressed that the youth are looking for leadership to address the real problems faced by Africa and beyond, and this requires a systemic approach to decolonizing development. We need to “take back ownership for, pride in [our] future and what [we] want it to look like. Because the youth are looking at us,” Anjani said.

On the question of innovating capitalist models amid escalating inequities, discussions emerged on resistance movements, historical examples of people-centered development in Africa, and the importance of reclaiming narratives. Crystal emphasized community involvement over costly external consultants and cited successful historical models. "We resist by redefining narratives based on our own experiences, our histories, our nuances, and our collective destiny," Crystal noted, highlighting the collective destiny that encompasses people and planets.

Addressing the status quo

Overall, the plenary panel discussion shed light on the importance of decolonization and provided valuable insights into how we can challenge the status quo. The speakers emphasized the need for systemic change, grassroots initiatives, and youth involvement to create a better future for all.

Patrice underscored the necessity of undergoing a paradigm shift and resetting mindsets to address colonialism effectively. He emphasized the importance of reclaiming identity as equal contributors to shaping the world and advocated for deconstructing colonial systems that not only affect the material but ideational notions of self and self-worth. Additionally, in highlighting the economic motives behind colonialism, he advocated for a transition towards a development paradigm based on Ubuntu principles, which emphasizes shared benefits and inclusion. The value of African contributions to shaping development models calls for a collective approach to address the injustices perpetuated by colonialism, stating that "The exercise should not pit us against another group or those who colonize, enslave, or exploit for their gain, but rather bring us together to recognize that colonialism, neo-colonialism, liberalism, or any other 'isms' do not benefit any of us." Anjani also stressed the importance of individuals and organizations taking responsibility for driving sustainable change, given the psychological trauma caused by colonialism and the need to address it in development activities. Anjani urged individuals to focus on actionable steps and partnerships to create meaningful change rather than being overwhelmed by complexity. She also criticized the insufficient investment in Africa despite its potential, calling for a shift in power dynamics and establishing a clear vision for the future.

The conversation also touched upon redefining success and metrics in decolonial and capitalistic contexts, urging a shift towards happiness, wellness, and equity measures. Success, it was argued, should be redefined based on values that prioritize the well-being of all individuals and the environment. Recognizing that current development approaches have fallen short and new perspectives are needed. Grassroots initiatives driven by youth and women’s organizations can offer transformative solutions. The intersection of gender, STEM skills, and sustainability presents opportunities for addressing real-world problems. Anjani noted that we must align these aspects to drive meaningful change.

Moreover, there was a call to diversify sources of knowledge in academic settings, challenging students to reference African voices and feminist theorists when discussing topics like poverty, development, or African issues rather than solely relying on Western perspectives. Our work must start in real life, and then we theorize it, from there, we bring it back to the concrete, the real world.

A call to action

As the discussion concluded, a call to action echoed, urging individuals and institutions to reevaluate and reshape systems and metrics to better align with the needs and values of diverse populations. By fostering an economy of abundance and shared prosperity, true decolonization and sustainable development can be achieved.

In reimagining our approach to development, it is imperative that we listen, learn, and center diverse voices and experiences. Without a global, equity-centered perspective and critical scrutiny of existing structures and systems, well-meaning efforts risk inadvertently causing harm. Collective action and systemic change can only pave the way for a more equitable and just future for all. Crystal's reflection perfectly encapsulates this sentiment: "All the gains are shared, and all of the people are cared for. Here, it is clear that there is enough for the living to live."

Central to SPHR2023 and the basic meaning of “social practice,” the harvest must always be mutual, underscoring the essence of shared prosperity and collective well-being.

Satang Nabaneh is Research Professor of Law at the University of Dayton School of Law and the Human Rights Center’s Director of Programs. A democracy, human rights, and governance specialist, her work spans human rights, democratization and autocratization, constitution-making and institutionalization of accountability structures, election processes, human rights, and transitional justice.

Ann Hudock is President and CEO of Counterpart International. Bringing more than 25 years of international development experience, Dr. Hudock leads the organization and its mission to promote civic participation and government accountability across our program portfolio. A UD alum, she chairs the Executive Advisory Committee of the University of Dayton Human Rights Center.

Natalie Florea Hudson is a professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Dayton, where she also serves as the executive director of the Human Rights Center. She specializes in gender and international relations, the politics of human rights, human security and international law and organization.