Indeed, the guidelines were developed through a series of consultations conducted in all the regions of Africa. Following the preparation and drafting process, the guidelines were reviewed and presented to the African Commission for adoption. Considering the current climate and taking into account the new challenges in the area of the right to peaceful demonstration, a comparative reading of the Guidelines on Freedom of Association and Assembly and the Guidelines for the Policing of Assemblies in Africa was conducted, with the participation of the Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders in Africa. We have thus adopted an original approach to provide human rights defenders in Africa with a working and advocacy tool that can be used when the Special Rapporteur encourages States parties to take ownership of the guidelines and take them into account when drafting laws. The Special Rapporteur expresses her hope that the guidelines will serve as a basis for the drafting of laws that comply with human rights, in particular freedom of association and assembly in Africa. Reine Alapini-Gansou Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders in Africa Former Chairperson of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights Guidelines on Freedom of Association and Assembly in Africa  | 5