UN Human Rights Expert to Assess Mozambique's Counter-Terrorism Efforts
UN Special Rapporteur Ben Saul begins a 10-day mission to Mozambique to assess the country's counter-terrorism efforts, human rights protections, legal frameworks and the impact of terrorism on affected communities.
Founder & Chief Editor · 3 August 2026 · 2 min read
By Osmara Digital Media – Africa in Focus
GENEVA, August 3, 2026 – United Nations Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism, Ben Saul, will undertake an official visit to Mozambique from August 4 to 14, 2026, to evaluate the country's efforts to combat terrorism while upholding human rights and the rule of law.
During the 10-day mission, Saul is expected to engage with government officials, security institutions, civil society organisations, victims of terrorism, internally displaced persons, and other key stakeholders. The visit comes as Mozambique continues to confront terrorism-related security challenges, particularly in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, while seeking to strengthen legal and institutional responses that comply with international human rights standards. According to the United Nations, the Special Rapporteur will examine Mozambique's legal, policy and institutional frameworks for countering terrorism. His assessment will cover criminal justice measures, efforts to prevent terrorist financing, and the conduct of security operations.
The mission will also focus on understanding the humanitarian impact of terrorism on affected communities, including victims and their families, as well as internally displaced people. In addition, Saul will explore the root causes and underlying factors that may contribute to violent extremism. At the conclusion of his visit, the Special Rapporteur will hold a press conference in Maputo on Friday, August 14, where he is expected to share his preliminary observations. The briefing will take place at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) premises and will be open exclusively to accredited journalists.
Saul's final report and recommendations will be presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council during its session in March 2027. The findings are expected to contribute to ongoing international discussions on balancing effective counter-terrorism measures with the protection of human rights.
Mozambique's experience has drawn increasing international attention as governments and partners seek sustainable strategies to address terrorism while safeguarding the rights and dignity of affected populations.
Founder & Chief Editor
Founder and Chief Editor of Osmara Digital Media. Journalist and historian telling Africa's stories through an African lens, from West Nile to the continent.
