About the Coalition

Leaders united for faith, freedom and justice

The Southern African Leaders Coalition for Faith, Freedom and Justice (SALC-FFJ) is a newly established initiative that brings together respected leaders from faith communities, legal, human rights, academic, and civil society sectors across Southern Africa. The Coalition was established to provide a unified, principled African voice in defense of human dignity, religious freedom, the rule of law, and access to justice. It seeks to promote respect for fundamental rights both within Southern Africa and, where appropriate, in response to international human rights concerns that warrant principled engagement.

Our Mission

To promote and protect the rights to faith, freedom, and justice through ethical advocacy, constructive dialogue, public engagement, and collaborative action. The Coalition seeks to strengthen Southern Africa's contribution to the advancement of universal human rights principles, due process, and freedom of religion or belief.

Our Vision

A Southern Africa that actively champions religious freedom, fair trial rights, the rule of law, and protection from arbitrary detention, while contributing a strong, independent African voice in support of justice and universal human rights.

Core Principles

The Coalition is founded upon these principles, which guide our advocacy and collaborative action.

Freedom of Religion or Belief

Respect for every person's right to practise, profess, change, and manifest their faith or beliefs without fear of discrimination, persecution, or coercion.

Fair Trial Rights

Respect for the right to a fair trial, including the presumption of innocence, access to legal representation, judicial independence, and impartial judicial proceedings.

Protection from Arbitrary Detention

Protection from arbitrary arrest or detention, consistent with domestic constitutional protections, regional human rights instruments, and international law.

Commitment to Justice and Rule of Law

Commitment to justice, human dignity, equality, and the rule of law as reflected in the Constitution of South Africa, the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, the UDHR, and the ICCPR.

Universal Human Rights

Recognition that human rights are universal and that Southern African leaders have an important role to play in speaking out against serious violations wherever they occur.

Principled Advocacy

Promotion of ethical, transparent, evidence-based, and non-partisan advocacy that upholds the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and respect.