2.3 The Factors that Influence Ratification While there are clear challenges that can slow political action, there are also strong incentives that encourage States to ratify treaties. Understanding these motivations helps civil society shape targeted advocacy messages that resonate with government priorities. States ratify treaties for political, legal, developmental, and strategic reasons, including the following: 1 To strengthen their international reputation: Ratification signals that a 5 To modernise or harmonise national laws: Sometimes ratification aligns with State is committed to human rights, reforms the State already intends to democracy, and the rule of law. It pursue, such as updating nationality enhances laws, diplomatic standing, builds strengthening or civil registration improving governance. trust with other countries, and shows systems, alignment with regional or global norms. Ratification then provides a framework and justification for change. 2 To demonstrate political will and leadership: Ratifying a treaty allows a government regional to position itself as leader and champion a of progressive reforms. It can also help a State influence interpreted or how a treaty implemented is at continental or global levels. 3 6 To strengthen domestic stability and rights protection: Ratifying human rights treaties can help States: a. improve protection for vulnerable groups b. reduce social exclusion c. strengthen legal certainty d. prevent conflict linked to identity To align with regional expectations or obligations: In regions like or discrimination Africa, ratification is often encouraged through This is especially true for treaties on AU frameworks, peer review mechanisms nationality, (e.g., APRM), or commitments made at equality, and refugees. children’s rights, gender regional summits. States may ratify to: a. meet AU commitments b. strengthen regional cooperation c. avoid being left behind as others move forward 4 To access technical, financial, and 7 To comply with international pressure or recommendations: States may ratify in response to: a. Universal Periodic Review (UPR) recommendations b. treaty body concluding observations capacity-building support: c. advocacy from civil society Ratification can unlock: d. diplomatic pressure from partners a. training for civil servants b. institutional support Ratification c. financial assistance for demonstrate compliance. becomes a way to implementing reforms d. access to UN or AU programs For many States, this is a practical incentive. 35