International Human Rights Law

This course will introduce the principles and institutions of international human rights law and the legal instruments designed for their protection. The extent to which international law is an effective vehicle for the protection of human rights will be considered, as well as questions about cultural relativism and the universality of human rights. The course will explore the nature of civil and political rights, social and economic rights, and the rights of women, Indigenous peoples, children and persons with disabilities. In addition, the role of non-governmental organizations and international courts and tribunals will be examined.