Human Rights

Synopsis

Today it is usually not long before a problem gets expressed as a human rights issue. Indeed, human rights law continues to gain increasing attention internationally, and must move quickly in order to keep up with a social world that changes so rapidly. This Very Short Introduction, in its second edition, brings the issue of human rights up to date, considering the current controversies surrounding the movement. Discussing torture and arbitrary detention in the context of counter terrorism, Andrew Clapham also considers new challenges to human rights in the context of privacy, equality and the right to health. Looking at the philosophical justification for rights, the historical origins of human rights and how they are formed in law, Clapham explains what our human rights actually are, what they might be, and where the human rights movement is heading. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Concept of Human Rights

* Defines human rights as inherent and inalienable entitlements of all individuals.
* Discusses the historical development of human rights, from the Magna Carta to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Real example: The Magna Carta (1215) limited the powers of the English monarch and established the principle that no one is above the law.

Chapter 2: The International Human Rights System

* Describes the United Nations system for promoting and protecting human rights.
* Examines the role of international tribunals, such as the International Criminal Court.
Real example: The Rome Statute (1998) established the International Criminal Court, which investigates and prosecutes individuals for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.

Chapter 3: The Rights of Individuals

* Outlines the broad range of human rights, including civil and political rights, economic and social rights, and cultural rights.
* Provides specific examples of each type of right.
Real example: Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees the right to freedom of expression, including the right to hold and express opinions without interference.

Chapter 4: The Promotion and Protection of Human Rights

* Explores the various mechanisms for promoting and protecting human rights.
* Discusses the role of governments, intergovernmental organizations, and civil society groups.
Real example: The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) monitors and reports on human rights violations worldwide.

Chapter 5: Challenges to Human Rights

* Identifies the major challenges to the realization of human rights, including poverty, discrimination, and armed conflict.
* Examines the impact of these challenges on individuals and societies.
Real example: The genocide in Rwanda (1994) demonstrated the devastating consequences of ethnic hatred and the challenges faced by peacekeepers in preventing mass atrocities.

Chapter 6: Human Rights Education

* Emphasizes the importance of human rights education for fostering awareness and respect for human dignity.
* Explores various approaches to human rights education, from formal curricula to community-based initiatives.
Real example: The International Human Rights Education Association (IHREA) provides training and resources for educators on human rights issues.

Chapter 7: The Future of Human Rights

* Examines emerging trends and challenges in the field of human rights.
* Considers the implications of technological advancements and globalization for human rights protections.
Real example: The rise of social media has both facilitated human rights advocacy and raised concerns about privacy and data protection.