Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on right to development (RTD) at the global level. It explores the RTD in its entirety in Africa. The book examines the historical development of the RTD. It also focuses on the RTD theoretical foundation. The book discusses the RTD in the African human rights system. It examines the substance of the right, the controversy on the right within academic circles and at the UN. The book discusses the implementation of the right in identifying the duty bearers as well as the right holders. It investigates how the RTD is received in Africa and especially how it cascades from the regional level, the sub-regional level and to national levels in selected jurisdictions, where it is explicitly provided for in the constitution. The book describes the reception of the RTD by the African Union governance institutions, namely the African Union Assembly.