The Union applied for observer status under the ARTICLE 19/GPU European Commission-funded project. The first phase of the project, a training for 20 Gambia journalists on "International Standards on Freedom of Expression"  has already been completed. 12 participants has already been selected to partake on further training on "Safety and Security for Journalists".

The African Commission is currently holding its 50th Ordinary Session in Banjul, which will last for two weeks. It started on Monday October 24, 2011.

"This means that one of the core objectives of our common project has been reached," said Mr MENZAN BRUNO Programme Assistant ARTICLE 19, on Wednesday. "Congratulation to you all who worked towards the attainment of this objective." 
He added: "We hope GPU will take full advantage of this status which allows the GPU to make statements at the Commission sessions." 
On the sidelines of the 50th Ordinary Session, the Commission gathered African experts on Friday October 21, for a three day consultation workshop focusing on how to implement and monitor the"Human Rights Strategy for Africa" (HRSA), as part of efforts to strengthen the African human rights system, to deepen the culture of democracy and to ensure the promotion of human rights on the continent. The experts are expected to develop a roadmap for the implementation of the action plan of the HRSA.
This was preceded by another three day "Forum on the Participation of Non-governmental Organisations in the 50th Ordinary Session of the African Commission"   which ended on October 21. Discussions were centred on a variety of topical issues, including the current Human Rights Situation on East, West, North, South and Central Africa.