Public lecture by Dr Graça Machel and conference on intergenerational justice and human rights in a time of planetary crises in Africa

In recognition of her exceptional contribution to the field of children's rights, Dr Graça Machel was awarded an honorary doctorate by Leiden University in 2021. To mark this occasion, the Graça Machel scholarship was established to enable promising South African women to pursue the Master of Laws Advanced Studies programme in International Children’s Rights at Leiden Law School. It is with great honour that Leiden University, together with the ASCL and the African Child Policy Forum, welcomes the visit of Dr Machel to recognise and celebrate her efforts in advocating for the rights and well-being of children worldwide.

Climate change, biodiversity loss, pandemics (emerging infectious disease and antimicrobial resistance), and environmental degradation are among the existential planetary crises casting a shadow over Africa. These crises are not abstract notions but impending realities that threaten to unravel decades of progress in health, well-being and development. Through the ages, Dr Machel has consistently voiced the importance of seeing children's vulnerability and recognising their resilience.

Leiden University will take the opportunity of Dr Machel's visit to reflect on intergenerational justice and what it will mean for the rights of all in Africa. Under the theme 'Intergenerational justice and human rights in a time of planetary crises in Africa' we will convene a series of cross-disciplinary and reflective discussions on the intergenerational dimensions of health, development and well-being in Africa, as the continent grapples with the above-mentioned challenges in the coming decades. This choice of theme reflects both the legacy of Dr Machel's work and her role in inspiring future generations.

On Friday 27 October Dr Machel will give a keynote lecture, followed by discussions.

Preliminary programme