International Academic & Stakeholder Conference

Conference on Witchcraft Accusations and Human Rights: Stakeholder Responses to UN Resolution 47/8

Organized by the International Network on Witchcraft Accusations and Associated Harmful Practices in partnership with the University of Livingstonia

Mzuzu City, Malawi | 10–12 November 2026

Background to the Conference

In July 2021, the United Nations Human Rights Council adopted Resolution 47/8 on the elimination of harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks (HPAWRA). The Resolution expresses deep concern that accusations of witchcraft and related practices cause cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment and severe social stigmatization.

While the Resolution calls on member states to protect vulnerable individuals, ensure legal accountability, and end severe human rights violations, its effective implementation depends heavily on the actions, cooperation, and accountability of non-state stakeholders—including civil society organizations, NGOs, faith-based institutions, and traditional community leaders in shaping local, national, and international responses.

Scope of the Conference

The conference focuses on the roles, responsibilities, and experiences of stakeholders in responding to Resolution 47/8, deliberating the following core questions:

How are different actors engaging with Resolution 47/8 in practice?

How can NGOs, churches, faith leaders, law enforcers, and community authorities support or influence state compliance?

What partnerships and tensions exist between states and non-state actors?

What lessons can be learned from past and present stakeholder-led initiatives addressing accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks?

How can approaches used in the implementation of other UN resolutions on harmful practices (such as FGM) inform future action?

Conference Themes

Survivor Advocacy & Experiences

Belief Systems, Social Order & Human Rights

Narratives, Media & Public Discourse

Traditional Authorities & Governance

Faith, Contestation & Religious Authority

Policing, Evidence & State Adjudication

Children, Protection & Institutional Responses

Practical Responses, Prevention & Protection

Registration Fees & Delegate Packages

Tier A

Local Malawian Participants

MWK 350,000

(£150 / US$200)

Conference fee

Meals & refreshments (2 days)

Tier B

Global South / Students / CSOs

Global South delegates, Postgrad students & CSOs

MWK 580,000

(£250 / US$335)

Conference fee & meals (2 days)

Airport transfers included

Accommodation (3 nights)

Tier C

International Academics

MWK 1,500,000

(£650 / US$870)

Conference fee & meals (2 days)

Airport transfers included

Accommodation (3 nights)

Ready to Participate?

Proceed to Registration Form