Exam Study Guide for INTL 204 – Introduction to International Human Rights

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms from the study guide for the INTL 204 exam, focusing on human rights theories, treaties, and essential definitions.

When did language about 'the rights of man' begin to emerge?

Language about 'the rights of man' began to emerge during the Enlightenment, associated with scholars like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

What are the main international relations theories that guide understandings of human rights?

The main theories include Liberalism, Realism, Constructivism, and Critical Theory.

What is the UDHR?

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a milestone document that proclaimed the inalienable rights inherent to all human beings.

What is the difference between the Human Rights Council and the Human Rights Committee?

The Human Rights Council is an intergovernmental body that addresses human rights issues globally, while the Human Rights Committee monitors the implementation of the ICCPR.

What is the Universal Periodic Review?

The Universal Periodic Review is a process through which the human rights records of all UN member states are reviewed.

What is the difference between ratification and signature of a human rights treaty?

Ratification confirms a state’s commitment to the treaty, while signature indicates preliminary endorsement without full legal obligations.

What are multilateral and bilateral treaties?

Multilateral treaties are agreements involving three or more states, while bilateral treaties are agreements between two states, both impacting human rights in different ways.

What role do reservations play in treaties?

Reservations allow states to agree to a treaty while not accepting specific provisions.

What is an Optional Protocol?

An Optional Protocol is an additional agreement that expands the scope or implications of a main treaty.

What is 'compliance' in the context of human rights treaties?

Compliance refers to a state's adherence to the obligations set out in human rights treaties, bodies, and courts.

What is the 'democracy-repression nexus'?

The 'democracy-repression nexus' refers to the relationship where democratic states may repress dissent to maintain order, particularly in unstable situations.

What is statelessness?

Statelessness occurs when an individual is not considered a national by any state.

What is the difference between human rights universalism and cultural relativism?

Universalism argues for the applicability of human rights to all humans, while cultural relativism contends that human rights should be interpreted in the context of cultural values.