The Hip Hop African

Hip-Hop and Human Rights in Africa By Msia Kibona Clark

February 2019 | Georgetown Journal of International Affairs

“The presence of social commentary on human rights in music is not new, it is not unique to Africa, and it is not limited to hip hop. Musicians have often engaged in social commentary around human rights, which has sometimes put them in opposition to the state. Hip-hop artists often confront their governments over corruption and state human rights records. The genre’s history of anti-establishmentarianism and of valuing confrontation over acquiescence has made it an important platform for African artists. This history has also made hip-hop less amenable to state control and, as such, more likely to be seen as a threat by state actors. Therefore, hip hop is an important vehicle for state and non-state actors alike to hear and understand popular views regarding corruption and human rights. ”

To access the complete article go to: https://www.georgetownjournalofinternationalaffairs.org/online-edition/2019/2/4/hip-hop-and-human-rights-in-africa