Key Points from the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen
Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen: Proclaimed by the National Assembly to establish the natural rights of individuals as a safeguard against abuse of power.
Key Rights Proclaimed:
- Equality: All men are born and remain equal in rights; social distinctions can only be based on general usefulness.
- Natural Rights: Include liberty, property, security, and resistance to oppression.
- Sovereignty: Resides in the nation; authority must derive from it.
- Liberty: Individuals can act freely as long as their actions do not harm others; limitations are determined by law.
- Law and Will: Law reflects the general will; all citizens are equal under it, with equal access to public office.
- Due Process: Arrest and detention must follow legal procedures; individuals presumed innocent until proven guilty.
- Freedom of Opinion: Individuals are free to express opinions as long as they do not disrupt public order.
- Communication of Ideas: Essential right, with responsibilities defined by law to prevent abuses.
- Public Force: Instituted for public good; needs to be accountable to the society it serves.
- Taxation: Must be fair and proportional; citizens can determine and oversee tax necessity and use.
- Public Accountability: Society can demand transparency from public officials about their administration.
- Constitution Requirement: A society lacking guaranteed rights or separated powers does not possess a constitution.
- Property Rights: Sacred and inviolable; deprivation permitted only for public necessity and with just compensation.