Book Title: Open Access International Human Rights Law

Book Description

Open Access International Human Rights Law provides an accessible and comprehensive introduction to the principles, institutions and substantive protections that underpin international human rights law. The first part traces the historical development and sources of human rights law, examines foundational principles such as dignity, equality, universality and proportionality, and explains the nature and scope of states’ legal obligations. It also explores the United Nations framework and the European, Inter-American and African regional systems of human rights protection.

The second part considers the interpretation and application of specific rights and areas of protection, including the right to life, environmental and climate justice, refugee law, socio-economic rights, the prohibitions of torture and slavery, freedom of religion or belief, children’s rights, disability rights, racial justice, gender and LGBTQI+ rights, and human rights within the criminal justice system. Drawing on international treaties, case law and contemporary developments, the book considers both the achievements and limitations of existing human rights systems.

Written collaboratively by specialists in the field and peer reviewed, this open textbook is an essential open educational resource for international human rights law modules. It is designed for students, educators, practitioners and anyone seeking to understand and apply international human rights law. Its open approach supports the wider availability, teaching and continued development of knowledge in this important field.