International human rights law is the body of international rules and principles designed to protect fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals. It establishes standards concerning human dignity, equality, liberty and protection from abuse.
PUBLIC LEGAL REFERENCE
Introduction to International Human Rights Law
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The purpose of international human rights law is to protect individuals from violations of fundamental rights, establish duties for States and promote respect for human dignity throughout the world.
Modern international human rights law developed significantly after the Second World War. The creation of the United Nations and the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 marked important developments in recognising universal human rights standards.
International human rights law is based on treaties, customary international law, declarations, judicial decisions and the practice of international institutions. These sources create and develop standards for protecting rights and freedoms.
States have obligations to respect, protect and fulfil human rights. These obligations require States to avoid unlawful interference with rights and to take appropriate measures to protect individuals.
The principle of universality recognises that human rights belong to all people regardless of nationality, race, gender, religion or other status.
International human rights institutions monitor compliance, interpret legal obligations and assist in developing human rights standards. These include United Nations bodies and treaty monitoring committees.
Students should understand the purpose of international human rights law, the protection of individuals, the role of treaties and the institutions responsible for monitoring compliance.
Students should understand the purpose, development and sources of international human rights law, the obligations of States and the principle that human rights apply universally.