5. Human Rights

Human Rights

Fundamental rights that every person is entitled to have

European Court of Human Rights (ECHR)

A European court in Strasbourg that hears cases where people believe their human rights have been violated. Example: Cases against the UK for unlawful detention or treatment.

Convention

An agreement between states on a specific matter. Example: European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

Article

A numbered clause or paragraph within a legal document that outlines a single right or rule. Example: Article 3 of ECHR prohibits torture.

International Humanitarian Laws (IHL)

Laws regulating the conduct of war

Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR

1948)

European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR

1950)

UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC

1990)

Human Rights Act (1998)

Incorporates ECHR rights into UK law

Equality Act (2010)

Protects citizens against discrimination based on race

Geneva Conventions

Protect wounded soldiers

Hague Conventions

Regulate the conduct of war

Enforcement of Human Rights

Violations can be prosecuted at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. Example: Leaders accused of war crimes

Causes for Human Rights Laws

Prevent abuse of power by governments

Effects of Human Rights Laws

Legal frameworks allow individuals to challenge government actions and protect citizens in daily life and conflict.

Impact of Human Rights Laws

Strengthens democracy