Introduction to International Human Rights Law
International Human Rights Law (IHRL) is a body of international law designed to promote and protect human rights at national and international levels. It establishes the obligations of governments to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, is a landmark document in the history of human rights. It was the first global declaration of the fundamental rights and freedoms to which all human beings are entitled, without distinction of any kind.
1948
Key International Covenants
Building upon the UDHR, two legally binding international treaties were developed: the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). Together with the UDHR, they form the International Bill of Human Rights.
| Covenant | Focus | Key Rights Covered |
|---|---|---|
| ICCPR | Civil and Political Rights | Right to life, freedom from torture, freedom of expression, right to a fair trial, freedom of assembly |
| ICESCR | Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights | Right to work, right to education, right to health, right to an adequate standard of living, freedom of association |
These covenants elaborate on the rights proclaimed in the UDHR, making them legally binding for states that ratify them. They also establish mechanisms for monitoring compliance.
The ICCPR and ICESCR are often referred to as 'twin covenants' because they were developed concurrently and aim to achieve the full realization of human rights.
Significance for Competitive Exams
Understanding the UDHR and the two main Covenants is crucial for competitive exams like the LSAT India and other law school entrance tests. These documents form the bedrock of international human rights law and are frequently tested in questions related to fundamental rights, state obligations, and international legal frameworks.
The relationship between the UDHR and the Covenants can be visualized as a foundational document (UDHR) from which two pillars of legally binding obligations (ICCPR and ICESCR) are built. The UDHR sets the universal standard, while the Covenants provide the legal framework for states to implement and uphold these rights.
Text-based content
Library pages focus on text content
The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).
Learning Resources
The official text of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a foundational document for international human rights.
The full text of the ICCPR, detailing civil and political rights and state obligations.
The full text of the ICESCR, outlining economic, social, and cultural rights and their implementation.
An overview of the UDHR, ICCPR, and ICESCR, explaining their collective significance as the International Bill of Human Rights.
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights' comprehensive resource on international human rights law, including treaties and conventions.
A concise introduction to the principles and scope of international human rights law from a UN perspective.
The official portal for LSAT India, which may contain syllabi or sample papers relevant to legal concepts.
Amnesty International's guide to understanding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its impact.
A video explaining the significance and content of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
An encyclopedic overview of the historical development of international human rights law, including key milestones and documents.