Human Rights Review Notes

A series of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from the lecture notes on human rights.

Human Rights

Basic rights and freedoms that belong to all human beings, considered universal, inalienable, and inherent.

Self-determination

The principle that communities have the right to determine their political status and pursue their development.

Universal Education

The right for everyone to have access to education, especially elementary education which should be free and compulsory.

Environmental Rights

Rights recognized internationally, asserting that the right to life and health depends on a healthy environment.

Abolition Movements

Efforts to end slavery, particularly prominent in the 19th century, culminating in various legal frameworks for its elimination.

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)

A treaty aimed at protecting civil and political rights, mandating states to respect and ensure these rights.

Universal Suffrage

The right of all adults to vote in democratic elections, which has expanded over time to include previously marginalized groups.

Trade Unionism

The organization of workers to achieve common goals, particularly in law reform for labor rights and working conditions.

Law Reform

Amendments to laws primarily aimed at abolishing slavery and enhancing individual rights over time.

The Australian Human Rights Commission

An independent statutory authority promoting human rights through awareness programs and reports.

Peace Rights

Entitlements to live free from conflict, war, or any form of oppression, affirmed in international documents.

Separation of Powers

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent the abuse of power.

Common Law

Law developed through court decisions and precedents, which can uphold and protect human rights.

International Instruments

Legal documents that outline and promote human rights standards globally, such as the UDHR.

Non-Government Organisations (NGOs)

Organizations that promote human rights by raising awareness, holding governments accountable, and advocating for change.

State Sovereignty

The authority of a state to govern itself without external interference, impacting the enforcement of human rights.