On August 22, 2025, over 200 representatives from the Chinese mainland and 44 African countries gathered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for the first China-Africa Human Rights Seminar. Centered on the theme “Building a China-Africa Community with a Shared Future and Jointly Realizing the Right to Development,” delegates engaged in lively debates and reached a landmark Addis Ababa Consensus covering eight key commitments.
1. Development as the Key to Human Rights 🛠️
Both sides agree that only by tackling poverty, hunger and inequality can we unlock true human rights. This shared focus echoes their common history as Global South nations striving for better futures.
2. Right to Development is Inalienable 🌍
The statement affirms that every person has the right to develop. Efforts will ramp up to remove barriers like conflict, discrimination, and environmental challenges, ensuring growth benefits everyone.
3. People-Centered Growth 🤝
Development must be by the people, for the people, and its fruits shared by all. China and African nations commit to making sure progress reaches every community.
4. Sustainable, High-Quality Development 🌱
Aligning with the UN Charter and the 2030 Agenda, the consensus pushes for eco-friendly, inclusive growth that balances modernization with environmental protection.
5. Respect for Sovereignty and Diversity 🛡️
Each country has the right to choose its own path based on local needs and traditions. Both sides stand against using human rights as a political tool to interfere in internal affairs.
6. Opposing Unilateralism and Hegemonism 🚫
Tariffs and trade barriers hurt development rights. The consensus calls for fair, win-win cooperation and an international system built on mutual respect.
7. Joint Global Action 🌐
China and African countries vow to promote the right to development in UN forums, pushing for legal frameworks and policies that prioritize people’s well-being worldwide.
8. Strengthening China-Africa Mechanisms 🔗
From the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation to the Belt and Road Initiative, both sides will boost platforms like the China-Africa Human Rights Seminar to deepen collaboration and safeguard development rights.
This Addis Ababa Consensus marks a milestone in China-Africa relations, underscoring a shared vision: development as the bedrock of human rights. As these partnerships grow, young leaders and communities across both regions will play a central role in shaping a fairer, more sustainable future. 🌟
Reference(s):
The Addis Ababa Consensus on the China-Africa Right to Development
cgtn.com
