Human Rights and International Enforcement

Q. What are Human Rights?

A: Fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to everyone from birth, without discrimination.

Q: What is the UDHR?

A: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a non-binding UN document outlining 30 human rights.

Q: What is the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms?

A: A legally binding part of Canada's Constitution that protects fundamental rights.

Q: What is the main difference between the UDHR and the Canadian Charter?

A: The UDHR is a non-binding international declaration, while the Canadian Charter is legally binding in Canada.

Q: Can the UDHR be directly enforced in court?

A: No. It relies on international pressure and cooperation.

Q: Can the Canadian Charter be enforced in court?

A: Yes. Canadian courts can enforce its protections.

Q: Who does the UDHR apply to?

A: Everyone around the world.

Q: Who does the Canadian Charter apply to?

A: Canadian governments and their actions.

Q: What is Domestic Incorporation?

A: When countries add international human rights treaties to their own laws.

Q: What is the Treaty Body System?

A: UN committees monitor countries and review their human rights records.

Q: What are Complaints Mechanisms?

A: Systems that allow individuals to report human rights violations to certain UN committees.

Q: What is the Enforcement Gap?

A: The UN cannot directly punish countries or send police; it relies on international pressure and accountability.