International Human Rights Law: An Introduction

The basic notion of human rights lies in the recognition of the need to protect and affirm an individual’s dignity. They are the rights of individuals in society, regardless of one’s background, origin, age, income, religion, sex or race. Human rights play an increasingly important role at the international, regional, national and local level, where individuals use the language of human rights to assert and protect their rights. Despite the proliferation of human rights-related documents, challenges with implementation and protection continue.

This one-week, comprehensive introduction course focuses on the major features of international human rights law, delving into both theory and practice. It begins by examining the philosophical and political bases of human rights. It then explores human rights documents and mechanisms for the promotion and protection of human rights at the international and regional levels, looking at civil and political rights, economic, social and cultural rights, and their relationship with one another. Participants will analyse specific rights in context, focusing on the complexities around ensuring human rights protection. Focus here will be placed on issues of equality and non-discrimination. Participants will examine the development of human rights law and role played by human rights institutions at all levels of society. Through lectures, interactive working groups and virtual excursion(s), participants will gain an understanding of the various elements - and their interplay - involved in this field. The course is designed for students and professionals with an interest in human rights law. It will allow participants to gain an in-depth understanding of human rights law in theory and in practice.