In what ways does politicisation affect human rights?

Politicisation can both advance and hinder the protection and promotion of human rights, depending on the context and actors involved.

Politicisation of human rights refers to the process where human rights issues are used as a tool or weapon in political discourse or action. This can have both positive and negative impacts on the realisation of human rights. On one hand, politicisation can lead to the advancement of human rights. For instance, political leaders or parties may champion human rights causes as part of their agenda, leading to legislative changes, policy reforms, or increased funding for human rights initiatives. This can result in tangible improvements in human rights conditions.

However, the politicisation of human rights can also have detrimental effects. Politicisation can lead to the instrumentalisation of human rights, where rights are used as a means to achieve political ends rather than as ends in themselves. This can result in selective enforcement or 'double standards', where some rights are prioritised over others based on political considerations. For example, a government might emphasise civil and political rights while neglecting economic, social and cultural rights, or vice versa, depending on its political ideology.

Moreover, politicisation can lead to the polarisation of human rights issues, turning them into contentious political debates rather than universally accepted norms. This can create divisions and conflicts within society, and can also lead to the marginalisation of certain groups whose rights are deemed less important or controversial. For instance, the rights of refugees, immigrants, or sexual minorities are often politicised, leading to their exclusion or discrimination.

Furthermore, the politicisation of human rights can undermine their universality and indivisibility, which are fundamental principles of human rights. When human rights are politicised, they can be seen as negotiable or conditional, rather than inherent and inalienable. This can weaken the overall human rights framework and its ability to protect all individuals equally.

In conclusion, while politicisation can potentially advance human rights, it can also pose significant challenges to their realisation. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that human rights are respected and promoted in a balanced and impartial manner, free from political manipulation or bias.