Abstract

This reflection from the field argues that African bar associations have the potential to play a significant part in the fight against impunity in African countries, given their legal expertise and high standing in society, and calls on them to use these assets for this purpose. After providing a brief overview of the history of civil society efforts to promote human rights and the rule of law on the African Continent, the author considers the strength of bar associations and law societies in strengthening the rule of law promoting accountability on the Continent. The author assesses the prospect of using bar associations and law societies to popularise and promote international criminal justice in Africa.