Tanzania will face an international assessment of its human rights record today, November 5, as it presents progress made in strengthening the rule of law, access to justice and social welfare at the United Nations Human Rights Council.
The review, held under the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) mechanism, will give the Government an opportunity to account for its implementation of recommendations from the previous assessment in 2021, outline reforms undertaken and identify areas requiring further action.
The exercise is part of the 53rd session of the UPR Working Group, taking place in Geneva from November 2 to 13, 2026.
Speaking to journalists in Geneva yesterday, Constitution and Legal Affairs Minister Abdallah Ulega said Tanzania was committed to strengthening human rights protection, good governance and international cooperation under President Samia Suluhu Hassan's leadership.
He said the Government was pursuing these priorities through the philosophy of Reconciliation, Resilience, Reforms and Rebuilding (4Rs).
“Tanzania is participating in the fourth UPR cycle after taking part in the three previous reviews in 2011, 2016 and 2021. The current review provides an important opportunity for the country to present its achievements, measures taken to implement recommendations accepted during previous cycles and demonstrate its commitment to further strengthening human rights and public welfare,” he said.
Mr Ulega said that since the 2021 assessment, the Government had taken measures across several sectors affecting citizens' rights and living conditions, including justice, healthcare, education, water supply and infrastructure development.
He said the interventions were intended to strengthen access to essential services, promote equal opportunities and support inclusive development.
The national report covers achievements, policy reforms and other interventions undertaken between 2021/22 and 2026, providing an account of the country's efforts to strengthen human rights protection systems.
Mr Ulega said the process was also linked to the National Development Vision 2050, which seeks to establish a prosperous, just, inclusive and self-reliant Tanzania.
Preparation of the report involved both the Union Government and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, alongside ministries, government departments and institutions, the Judiciary, civil society organisations, religious institutions, organisations representing persons with disabilities and other human rights stakeholders.
The UPR is a United Nations Human Rights Council mechanism through which the human rights records of all UN member states are reviewed on an equal basis.
During the process, countries present reports on their human rights situations, achievements and challenges, while other member states issue recommendations aimed at improving the protection and implementation of human rights.
For Tanzania, the review provides an opportunity not only to report on progress but also to demonstrate how commitments made at international level are being translated into practical improvements in citizens' rights and access to essential services.