INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS LAW

Module I: Background and Introduction

A. Origin and Development – Concept of Human Rights –Ancient Europe - The Middle
Ages – The Magna Carta – Bill of rights – American Revolution – French Revolution
– Classification of Human Rights – Practice of Ancient Indian States - Vedas, Ashoka
and Sangam Tamil Nadu
B. Human Rights and Duties – the idea of duty in the ancient and modern era – duty of
individuals to fellow human beings – Gandhian Ideas and human rights instruments
on duties
C. Sources of International Human Rights Law: Treaties, Customs and soft law
instruments- role of international courts and tribunals – recognition of international
human rights law by municipal systems

Human rights are standards that protect the dignity of all people. They are inherent to all
human beings, regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other
status.
Some examples of human rights include:
 The right to life and liberty
 Freedom from slavery and torture
 Freedom of opinion and expression
 The right to work and education
 The right to a fair trial
 The right to privacy
 The right to own property
 The right to vote
Human rights protect people from severe political, legal, and social abuses. They govern how
people live in society and with each other, as well as their relationship with the state and the
obligations that the state has towards them.
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in
Paris on December 10, 1948.
The origins of human rights can be traced back to 539 BC, when Cyrus the Great conquered
Babylon. Cyrus freed slaves, established racial equality, and declared that all people had the
right to choose their own religion.
The concept of natural rights, which appeared in the medieval natural law tradition, is
considered to be the forerunner of human rights discourse.
Some trace the origins of human rights to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was closely tied
to the doctrines of the Stoics. The Stoics believed that human conduct should be judged
according to, and brought into harmony with, the law of nature.
The Greek play Antigone recognizes human rights as the natural rights of man.
The right to development puts people at the center of the development process. It aims to
improve the well-being of the entire population and of all individuals. Senegalese diplomat
Doudou Thiam first articulated the “right to development” in a speech delivered at the opening
session of the 21st UN General Assembly on 23 September 1966.
Human rights in Ancient Europe
The history of human rights in Europe is a combination of legislative and intellectual progress
and human rights violations.
In ancient Rome, an ius gentium was a right that a citizen was due by virtue of their citizenship.
The concept of a Roman ius is a precursor to a right in the Western European tradition.
The idea of human rights emerged in early modern Europe in the form of "Natural Rights".
During the 17th and 18th centuries, philosophers developed the concept of "natural rights"
further. John Locke (1689) developed the theory that every human being has certain rights that
derive from their own nature and not from their government or its laws.
Documents asserting individual rights, such as the Magna Carta (1215), the English Bill of Rights
(1689), the French Declaration on the Rights of Man and Citizen (1789), and the US Constitution
and Bill of Rights (1791) are the written precursors to many of today's human rights documents.
Human rights in Middle Ages
The concept of human rights in the Middle Ages was based on the natural law tradition, which
was influenced by early Christian thinkers. This tradition held that individuals have certain rights
simply because they are human beings.
The Church was at the forefront of human rights by:
 Recognizing the equality of souls
  Eliminating slavery
 Elevating the status of women
Medieval moralists valued liberty, which is the freedom to not be excessively constrained by
socially and legally enforced duties. Medieval liberty also included the power to act in
community affairs and to influence one's fellows without government interference.
Magna Carta
The Magna Carta, Latin for "Great Charter," is a foundational document in the history of
constitutional law and individual rights. It was originally issued in 1215 during the reign of King
John of England. The Magna Carta was a response to the grievances and dissatisfaction of the
barons and nobles with the king's arbitrary rule and heavy taxation.
Key features of the Magna Carta include:
1. Limitation of Royal Power: One of the primary purposes of the Magna Carta was to limit
the power of the monarch and establish that the king was not above the law. It aimed to
curb the arbitrary actions of the king and protect the rights and privileges of the barons.
2. Protection of Property and Inheritance: The Magna Carta included provisions to
safeguard the property rights of the barons and ensure the orderly transfer of
inheritance. It sought to prevent the king from seizing property unjustly.
3. Due Process of Law: The document emphasized the importance of due process of law
and established that individuals were entitled to a fair trial before being deprived of life,
liberty, or property. This laid the foundation for the concept of habeas corpus.
4. Formation of a Council of Barons: The Magna Carta paved the way for the creation of a
council of barons that could advise the king on matters of governance. This marked an
early step toward the development of representative government.
While the original Magna Carta had limited immediate impact, subsequent versions were issued
during the reigns of later English monarchs. Over time, the ideas and principles embedded in
the Magna Carta became foundational to the development of constitutional law and individual
rights. Its influence can be seen in various constitutional documents, including the United States
Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The Magna Carta symbolizes the struggle for the rule of law and the protection of individual
liberties, making it a crucial milestone in the development of constitutional governance.
Bill of Rights
The term "Bill of Rights" generally refers to a document or set of fundamental rights and
freedoms guaranteed to the citizens of a country. Several countries have their own Bills of
Rights, each tailored to their specific legal and historical context. Here, I'll focus on the Bill of
Rights in the context of the United States.
In the United States, the Bill of Rights refers to the first ten amendments to the U.S.
Constitution, which were ratified in 1791. These amendments were added to address concerns
raised by Anti-Federalists during the ratification process of the Constitution, who feared the
potential abuse of government power and the lack of explicit protections for individual liberties.
The U.S. Bill of Rights includes the following amendments:
1. First Amendment: Protects the freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and the
right to petition the government.
2. Second Amendment: Ensures the right to bear arms.
3. Third Amendment: Prohibits the forced quartering of soldiers in private homes during
peacetime.
4. Fourth Amendment: Guards against unreasonable searches and seizures and requires
warrants to be supported by probable cause.
5. Fifth Amendment: Protects individuals from self-incrimination, double jeopardy, and
guarantees due process of law.
6. Sixth Amendment: Ensures the right to a fair and speedy trial, including the right to
legal counsel.
7. Seventh Amendment: Preserves the right to a trial by jury in certain civil cases.
8. Eighth Amendment: Prohibits cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail.
9. Ninth Amendment: Asserts that the enumeration of certain rights in the Constitution
does not deny or disparage other rights retained by the people.
10. Tenth Amendment: Reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the
states or the people.
These amendments collectively safeguard individual liberties, limit government power, and
establish the principles of due process and rule of law. The U.S. Bill of Rights is a cornerstone of
American constitutional law and has had a profound influence on the development of human
rights globally. It serves as a model for many other countries seeking to protect the rights and
freedoms of their citizens.

Module II: Development of International Human Rights Law

A. ICRC and Evolution of International Humanitarian Law – abolition of slavery –
national and international efforts to abolish slavery and apartheid
B. Right of Self–Determination of People – Prohibition of Genocide – Prohibition of
Torture – Prohibition of Racial Discrimination – Prohibition of Slavery – Prohibition
of Human Traffic and modern forms of slavery
C. Evolution of International Labour Organisation – Early conventions and subsequent
development – rights of workers including women, children and migrant labour

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has played a pivotal role in the evolution
of international humanitarian law (IHL) since its establishment in 1863. Here's an overview of
the ICRC's contributions to the development of IHL:
1. Establishment of the Red Cross Movement:
 The ICRC was founded in Geneva, Switzerland, by Henry Dunant and Gustave Moynier in
response to the suffering witnessed during the Battle of Solferino in 1859. This event led
to the adoption of the first Geneva Convention in 1864, which aimed to protect
wounded soldiers on the battlefield.
2. Development of the Geneva Conventions:
 The ICRC has been instrumental in the drafting and adoption of the Geneva
Conventions, which are a cornerstone of IHL. These conventions, initially adopted in
1864 and subsequently revised and expanded, provide legal protections for wounded
and sick combatants, prisoners of war, and civilians during armed conflicts.
3. Promotion of Humanitarian Principles:
 The ICRC has been a leading advocate for the principles of humanity, impartiality,
neutrality, and independence in humanitarian action. These principles guide the work of
the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and are enshrined in the Statutes of the
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
4. Interpretation and Development of IHL:
 The ICRC plays a crucial role in interpreting and developing IHL through its legal
expertise and operational experience. It provides expert advice to states, armed forces,
and other stakeholders on the application of IHL in various contexts, including armed
conflicts and other situations of violence.
5. Monitoring and Reporting Violations:
  The ICRC monitors compliance with IHL and reports violations to relevant authorities.
This includes visiting places of detention, facilitating the exchange of prisoners of war,
and documenting violations of IHL committed by parties to armed conflicts.
6. Advocacy and Education:
 The ICRC engages in advocacy and education to promote awareness of IHL and foster
respect for its principles. It conducts training programs, disseminates educational
materials, and collaborates with governments, armed forces, and civil society
organizations to integrate IHL into policies and practices.
7. Adaptation to Contemporary Challenges:
 The ICRC continually adapts its strategies and approaches to address contemporary
challenges in humanitarian action. This includes responding to new forms of conflict,
such as cyber warfare and urban warfare, and advocating for the protection of civilians
and other vulnerable groups in armed conflicts.
In conclusion, the ICRC's contributions to the evolution of IHL have been substantial and
multifaceted. Through its advocacy, expertise, and operational activities, the ICRC continues to
play a vital role in promoting respect for IHL, protecting the lives and dignity of those affected
by armed conflicts, and advancing the cause of humanitarianism worldwide.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has played a pivotal role in the evolution
of international humanitarian law (IHL), including efforts to abolish slavery and apartheid.
Here's an overview of the evolution of these issues, both nationally and internationally:
1. Origins of International Humanitarian Law (IHL):
International humanitarian law, also known as the laws of war or the laws of armed conflict,
emerged in response to the devastation caused by armed conflicts throughout history. The
ICRC, founded in 1863, played a key role in shaping IHL, advocating for the humane treatment
of wounded soldiers and prisoners of war.
2. Abolition of Slavery:
Slavery has a long history, with practices dating back thousands of years. Efforts to abolish
slavery gained momentum in the 18th and 19th centuries, driven by moral, religious, and
political movements. The ICRC's involvement in the abolition of slavery stems from its broader
commitment to human dignity and rights.
National Efforts:
Many countries enacted laws to abolish slavery within their territories. For example, the British
Empire abolished the transatlantic slave trade in 1807 and slavery itself in 1833. The United
States similarly abolished slavery with the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 and the
ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865.
International Efforts:
At the international level, the 1926 Slavery Convention marked a significant step forward in
addressing slavery as a global concern. The convention defined slavery and established
mechanisms for its suppression and abolition. Subsequent international agreements, such as
the Supplementary Convention on the Abolition of Slavery, the Slave Trade, and Institutions and
Practices Similar to Slavery (1956), further strengthened the legal framework against slavery.
3. Efforts to Abolish Apartheid:
Apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination, emerged in South
Africa in the mid-20th century. The ICRC condemned apartheid as a violation of human rights
and worked alongside other international organizations and civil society groups to advocate for
its abolition.
National Efforts:
Within South Africa, resistance to apartheid grew throughout the 20th century, led by
organizations such as the African National Congress (ANC) and individuals like Nelson Mandela.
Mass protests, boycotts, and international pressure contributed to the dismantling of apartheid
laws.
International Efforts:
Internationally, the United Nations played a central role in condemning apartheid and
supporting efforts to end it. The UN General Assembly adopted the International Convention on
the Suppression and Punishment of the Crime of Apartheid in 1973, defining apartheid as a
crime against humanity. The UN also imposed economic sanctions and an arms embargo on
South Africa to pressure the government to dismantle apartheid.
4. ICRC's Role in Advancing Humanitarian Values:
Throughout these efforts, the ICRC served as a neutral intermediary, providing humanitarian
assistance to victims of slavery, apartheid, and armed conflict. The organization's work
emphasized the importance of upholding human dignity and rights, regardless of political or
social circumstances.
Conclusion:
The abolition of slavery and apartheid represents significant milestones in the evolution of
international humanitarian law and the protection of human rights. National and international
efforts, supported by organizations like the ICRC, have demonstrated the power of collective
action in addressing systemic injustices and advancing the cause of human dignity and equality.
Through its advocacy, assistance, and principled stance, the ICRC continues to contribute to the
promotion of humanitarian values and the protection of vulnerable populations around the
world, reinforcing the interconnectedness between international humanitarian law, human
rights, and the pursuit of peace and justice.

The right of self-determination, prohibition of genocide, prohibition of torture, prohibition of

racial discrimination, prohibition of slavery, and prohibition of human trafficking and modern
forms of slavery are fundamental principles enshrined in international law. In this overview, I
will discuss each of these concepts, their historical development, and their significance in the
promotion and protection of human rights globally.
1. Right of Self-Determination:
The right of self-determination is a fundamental principle in international law that recognizes
the right of peoples to freely determine their political status, pursue their economic, social, and
cultural development, and exercise sovereignty over their natural resources. It was first
articulated in the aftermath of World War I and gained further prominence in the wake of
decolonization movements in the 20th century.
Historical Development:
 The principle of self-determination found expression in the Charter of the United
Nations, which affirmed the right of all peoples to self-determination and pledged to
promote respect for this right.
 The principle was further elaborated in the International Covenant on Civil and Political
Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
(ICESCR), both adopted in 1966, which recognize the right of self-determination of
peoples to freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and
cultural development.
 The right of self-determination has been invoked by various peoples seeking
independence, autonomy, or the right to govern themselves, including in cases such as
the decolonization of Africa and the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Significance:
The right of self-determination is a cornerstone of international human rights law and a
fundamental principle for the protection of minority rights, indigenous peoples, and peoples
under colonial or foreign domination.
  It serves as a basis for the resolution of conflicts and the promotion of peace,
democracy, and development, by enabling peoples to peacefully pursue their political
aspirations and determine their own future.
2. Prohibition of Genocide:
The prohibition of genocide is a fundamental norm of international law that prohibits the
commission of acts with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or
religious group. It is codified in the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the
Crime of Genocide.
Historical Development:
 The concept of genocide gained international recognition following the atrocities
committed during World War II, particularly the Holocaust, in which six million Jews
were systematically murdered by the Nazi regime.
 The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide was
adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948 and entered into force in
1951. It defines genocide as a crime under international law and obligates states to
prevent and punish genocide.
Significance:
 The prohibition of genocide represents a fundamental commitment to the protection of
human dignity and the prevention of mass atrocities.
 It serves as a legal and moral deterrent against the commission of genocide and
obligates states to take measures to prevent genocide, punish perpetrators, and provide
justice and reparations to victims and survivors.
3. Prohibition of Torture:
The prohibition of torture is a fundamental principle in international law that prohibits the
infliction of severe physical or mental pain or suffering, intentionally inflicted by or with the
consent or acquiescence of a public official, for purposes such as obtaining information,
punishment, intimidation, or discrimination.
Historical Development:
 The prohibition of torture is enshrined in various international and regional human
rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the
Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or
Punishment (CAT), and regional treaties such as the European Convention on Human
Rights.
  The absolute prohibition of torture has attained jus cogens status in international law,
meaning it is considered a peremptory norm from which no derogation is permitted
under any circumstances.
Significance:
 The prohibition of torture reflects a fundamental commitment to the protection of
human dignity and the inherent worth of every individual.
 It serves as a bulwark against state abuse of power and provides essential safeguards for
the protection of human rights, including the right to life, liberty, and security of person.
4. Prohibition of Racial Discrimination:
The prohibition of racial discrimination is a fundamental principle in international law that
prohibits any distinction, exclusion, restriction, or preference based on race, color, descent, or
national or ethnic origin, which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the
recognition, enjoyment, or exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Historical Development:
 The principle of non-discrimination is enshrined in numerous international and regional
human rights instruments, including the UDHR, the International Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), and regional treaties such as
the European Convention on Human Rights.
 The struggle against racial discrimination has been central to the human rights
movement, with significant milestones including the civil rights movement in the United
States, the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, and the adoption of legislation and
policies to combat racial discrimination worldwide.
Significance:
 The prohibition of racial discrimination reflects a fundamental commitment to the
principles of equality, dignity, and non-discrimination.
 It serves as a foundation for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms
for all individuals, regardless of race, color, descent, or national or ethnic origin.
5. Prohibition of Slavery:
The prohibition of slavery is a fundamental principle in international law that prohibits the
institution of slavery, servitude, and forced labor in all its forms. It is codified in various
international and regional human rights instruments, including the UDHR, the International
Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the International Labour Organization (ILO)
Forced Labour Convention.
Historical Development:
 The abolition of slavery is a long-standing struggle that has spanned centuries and
involved movements, campaigns, and legal reforms worldwide.
 The transatlantic slave trade and the chattel slavery system that emerged in the
Americas were among the most egregious forms of slavery in history, resulting in the
exploitation and dehumanization of millions of people.
 The abolitionist movement gained momentum in the 18th and 19th centuries, leading to
the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade and slavery in many countries, although
forms of slavery and forced labor persist to this day.
Significance:
 The prohibition of slavery represents a fundamental commitment to the protection of
human dignity and the inherent worth of every individual.
 It serves as a moral and legal imperative to eradicate the dehumanizing institution of
slavery and ensure the protection of individuals from exploitation, coercion, and forced
labor.
6. Prohibition of Human Trafficking and Modern Forms of Slavery:
The prohibition of human trafficking and modern forms of slavery is a fundamental principle in
international law that prohibits the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt
of persons by means of threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, abduction, fraud,
deception, abuse of power, or exploitation for purposes such as forced labor, sexual
exploitation, or organ trafficking.
Historical Development:
 Human trafficking and modern forms of slavery represent contemporary manifestations
of exploitation and abuse, driven by factors such as poverty, inequality, conflict, and
organized crime.
 Efforts to combat human trafficking and modern forms of slavery have intensified in
recent decades, with the adoption of international legal instruments such as the
Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and
Children, which supplements the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime.
Significance:
 The prohibition of human trafficking and modern forms of slavery reflects a
fundamental commitment to the protection of human dignity and the eradication of
exploitation and abuse.
  It serves as a call to action for states, international organizations, civil society, and other
stakeholders to collaborate in preventing trafficking, protecting victims, prosecuting
perpetrators, and addressing the root causes of trafficking and exploitation.
In conclusion, the right of self-determination, prohibition of genocide, prohibition of torture,
prohibition of racial discrimination, prohibition of slavery, and prohibition of human trafficking
and modern forms of slavery represent fundamental principles in international law that reflect
a commitment to the protection of human dignity, equality, and justice. These principles serve
as moral and legal imperatives to prevent atrocities, uphold human rights, and promote peace,
security, and development for all individuals and communities worldwide.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has a rich history of promoting social justice and
protecting the rights of workers worldwide. Established in 1919 as a specialized agency of the
United Nations, the ILO has evolved significantly over the years, advancing international labor
standards, promoting decent work, and addressing emerging challenges in the world of work.
This overview traces the evolution of the ILO, from its early conventions to its ongoing efforts to
protect the rights of workers, including women, children, and migrant laborers.
Early Conventions and Foundation:
The ILO was founded in the aftermath of World War I, with the adoption of the Treaty of
Versailles in 1919. Its mandate was to promote social justice and improve labor conditions
globally. The ILO's Constitution, adopted at its founding conference in Philadelphia, affirmed
the principle that labor is not a commodity and laid the groundwork for the organization's work
on labor standards and social protection.
The early years of the ILO were marked by the adoption of several key conventions and
recommendations, including the Hours of Work (Industry) Convention, 1919 (No. 1), which
established the principle of an eight-hour workday, and the Minimum Age Convention, 1919
(No. 5), which set a minimum age for employment.
Expansion and Growth:
In the decades following its establishment, the ILO expanded its mandate and activities,
addressing a wide range of labor issues, including occupational safety and health, freedom of
association, collective bargaining, and social security. The organization became a leading voice
for workers' rights on the international stage, advocating for fair wages, decent working
conditions, and social protection for all.
During the Great Depression of the 1930s, the ILO played a crucial role in developing policies to
address unemployment and poverty, including the adoption of the Declaration of Philadelphia
in 1944, which affirmed the ILO's commitment to promoting social justice and full employment
as essential for lasting peace.
Rights of Workers:
The ILO has been at the forefront of efforts to protect the rights of workers, including women,
children, and migrant laborers. Over the years, the organization has adopted numerous
conventions and recommendations aimed at eliminating discrimination, ensuring equal pay for
equal work, and promoting the rights of vulnerable groups in the labor market.
Rights of Women: The ILO has long recognized the importance of gender equality in the
workplace. It adopted the Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100), which requires
equal pay for men and women for work of equal value. Subsequent conventions, such as the
Maternity Protection Convention, 2000 (No. 183), and the Workers with Family Responsibilities
Convention, 1981 (No. 156), have sought to protect the rights of women in the workforce,
including maternity leave and childcare support.
Rights of Children: The ILO has been a leading advocate for the elimination of child labor. It
adopted the Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No. 138), which sets a minimum age for
employment and prohibits the worst forms of child labor. The organization has also worked to
promote education and vocational training opportunities for children and young people,
helping them to break the cycle of poverty and exploitation.
Rights of Migrant Workers: The ILO has developed a comprehensive framework for the
protection of migrant workers' rights. It adopted the Migration for Employment Convention,
1949 (No. 97), and the Migrant Workers (Supplementary Provisions) Convention, 1975 (No.
143), which address issues such as recruitment, employment conditions, and social security for
migrant workers. The organization has also developed guidelines and recommendations to
promote fair and ethical recruitment practices and combat human trafficking and forced labor.
Challenges and Future Directions:
While the ILO has made significant progress in advancing workers' rights and social justice,
numerous challenges persist, including inequality, informality, and the impact of technological
change on the world of work. The COVID-19 pandemic has further underscored the need for
strong social protection systems, decent work opportunities, and inclusive policies to build back
better and ensure a sustainable and resilient recovery.
Looking ahead, the ILO will continue to play a crucial role in promoting social justice and decent
work for all. It will work to strengthen labor standards, promote social dialogue, and address
emerging challenges in the world of work, guided by its core principles of social justice,
tripartism, and dialogue.
In conclusion, the ILO's evolution from its early conventions to its ongoing efforts to protect the
rights of workers, including women, children, and migrant laborers, reflects a commitment to
promoting social justice, decent work, and human dignity worldwide. As the world grapples
with new and emerging challenges, the ILO remains a vital actor in the quest for a fairer, more
inclusive, and sustainable future for all.
Module III: United Nations and International Human Rights
A. Evolution of Human Rights in the UN framework- Development of UDHR – Role of
Commission on Human Rights
B. International Bill of Human Rights – Universal Declaration of Human Rights –
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights – International Covenant on
Economic, Social and Cultural Rights – Non-derogable rights – Progressive
Realisation of Human Rights – Conventions on Rights of the Child, Women and
Disabled
C. Prevention of Terrorism –International efforts to counter terrorism –cyber warfare and
human rights
Module IV:Enforcement Mechanisms
A. General Assembly and Security Council on Human Rights - United Nations Charter
based Human Rights Institutions- UNHRC –Committees under various human rights
treaties – General Comments and Recommendations – Special Rapporteurs – UN
High Commissioner for Human Rights
B. Response of International Community to Human Rights Situations: South and South
East Asia, Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Eastern Europe
C. Asian, African and European Human Rights Instruments and their enforcement –
Regional Judicial bodies. (European Court of Human Rights, Inter-American Court of
Human Rights and African Court of Human Rights)
Module V: Civil and Political Rights
A. Rights of elderly Persons, Tribes, Minorities (including Linguistic, Religious and
Sexual Minorities)
B. Rights of Victims of Crimes – Death Penalty – Rights of Accused and Convict
C. Democracy and International Rule of Law – Right to Vote – Right to Take Part in
the Governance
D. Concept of NGO’s and International NGO’s – their participation in Human Rights
issues – Selective case studies.
Module VI: Economic and Cultural Rights
A. Right to Education – International law and national implementation
B. Right to Health – International Law on Tobacco control, Narcotics - contagious
diseases – World Health Organisation
C. Right to Food, Water and Sanitation – eradication of hunger and malnutrition –
role of Food and Agriculture Organisation
D. Right to Environment – Sustainable Development Goals – economic
development, environmental protection and human rights
251
Module VII: International Refugee Law
A. Introduction – Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons, Forced Migration, Economic
Migration, Asylum – Relationship between IHRL, IHL, and IRL
B. International Standards in Refugee Law - 1951 UN Convention relating to the Status
of Refugees (UNCSR) with its 1967 Additional Protocol, UNHCR – Statute,
Mandate, Role, Functions, Responsibilities
C. Concept of Non-Refoulment, Durable Solutions - voluntary repatriation, local asylum,
and resettlement
D. Contemporary Concerns and Challenges – Select case studies
Module VIII: Implementing International Human Rights in India
A. India’s ratification and response to Human Rights Treaties and mechanisms
B. The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 – Paris Principles on National Human
Rights Institutions – State and National Human Rights Commissions
C. Commissions for Women, SC/ST, Minorities, Children etc.
D. Constitutional and Legislative Framework: Fundamental Rights, Duties and Directive
Principles – Right to Information
E. Role of High Courts and Supreme Court in Protecting Human Rights