Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 20th June 2018: Following recent reports published in African and international media in relation to allegations made concerning incidences of harassment of women at the African Union Commission (AUC), the Chairperson of the AUC, Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat has appointed a High Level Committee to investigate the allegations and to provide a comprehensive report on their findings and submit appropriate recommendations for remedial action.

The High Level Committee is comprised of three eminent persons:
• Madame Bineta Diop, who is the African Union Special Envoy for Women, Peace and Security and who will chair the Committee
• Ms. Lucy Asuagbor who is a member of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights and Special Rapporteur on Women’s Rights in Africa
• Ms. Tujilane Rose Chizumila who is a judge at the African Court on Human and People’s Rights.

On the appointment of the High Level Committee, the Chairperson of the AUC affirmed the commitment of the leadership of the African Union towards ensuring that the institution provides a conducive work environment for all its employees to ensure quality delivery of service to achieve the objectives of the Union.

The High Level Committee commenced its operations on the 8th of June 2018 and is expected to submit its final report on the investigations undertaken by the end of June 2018.

The report will be used as the basis for remedial action and other appropriate measures to be undertaken by the leadership of the African Union.