International Human Rights Law: An Introduction

Description

It begins by examining the philosophical and political bases of human rights and then explores human rights documents and mechanisms for the promotion and protection of human rights at the international and regional levels. Particular attention will be paid to issues of equality and discrimination, and 'hot' human rights topics such as the right to life, the right to protest and the right to environment. Through lectures, interactive working groups and an excursion, participants will gain an understanding of the various elements - and their interplay - involved in this field.

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.

Lecturers

Subject to change, with occasional guest expert. 

• Prof Antoine Buyse (2026)
• Dr. Katharine Fortin
• Dr Brianne McGonigle Leyh
• Dr. Lucas Roorda
• Dr. Kushtrim Istrefi
• Dr. Roisin Burke
• Dr. Marjolein van den Brink
• Dr Machiko Kanetake
• Prof. Javier Couso Salas
• Dr Anneloes Kuiper
• Dr Birte Böök
• Dr Lorena Sosa
• Dr Roman Teshome
• Dr Halefom Abraha
• Dr Hana van Ooijen

Aim of the course

The aim of the course is to provide a comprehensive introduction to the theory and practice of international human rights law.

Study load

Six contact hours per day, for five days. Two hours reading per day.

Note: these contact hours include discussion, group work assignments of students, lectures and viewing of pre-recorded lectures.

Tags

• Human Rights
• Human Rights law
• International Law