Summary

The African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance (ADC) was adopted by member states of the African Union (AU) on January 30, 2007. It aims to promote liberal democracy and human rights across Africa. This charter is the first binding document adopted by AU members. Among its provisions are measures to combat unconstitutional regime changes, including recognizing constitutional coups as a form of unconstitutional regime change for the first time.

Contents

• Chapter 1: Definitions
• Chapter 2: Objectives
• Chapter 3: Principles 
• Chapter 4: Democracy, Rule of Law and Human Rights
• Chapter 5: The Culture of Democracy and Peace
• Chapter 6: Democratic Institutions
• Chapter 7: Democratic Elections
• Chapter 8: Sanctions in Cases of Unconstitutional Changes of Government
• Chapter 9: Political, Economic and Social Governance
• Chapter 10: Mechanisms for Application
• Chapter 11: Final Clauses

Source: Africa Union (Document Source)

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