What is the significance of the internationalisation of human rights?

The internationalisation of human rights signifies a global consensus on the importance of protecting individual human dignity.

The internationalisation of human rights is a significant development in global politics. It represents a shift from the traditional state-centric view of international relations to a more human-centric approach. This shift recognises that the protection of human rights is not just a domestic issue, but a global concern that transcends national boundaries. It is a reflection of the growing consensus among nations that every individual, regardless of their nationality, race, gender, or religion, has certain inalienable rights that must be respected and protected.

The internationalisation of human rights has led to the establishment of various international human rights instruments, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. These instruments set out the basic rights and freedoms that all individuals are entitled to, and they provide a framework for holding states accountable for human rights abuses.

Moreover, the internationalisation of human rights has also led to the creation of international bodies and mechanisms to monitor and enforce compliance with human rights standards. These include the United Nations Human Rights Council, the International Criminal Court, and various regional human rights courts and commissions. These institutions play a crucial role in promoting and protecting human rights at the global level.

Furthermore, the internationalisation of human rights has also facilitated the growth of a vibrant global civil society dedicated to human rights advocacy. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, among others, have become influential actors in the global human rights regime. They play a key role in documenting human rights abuses, raising awareness about human rights issues, and lobbying for stronger human rights protections.

In conclusion, the internationalisation of human rights is a significant development that reflects the growing recognition of the importance of protecting individual human dignity at the global level. It has led to the establishment of a comprehensive international human rights regime that seeks to promote and protect human rights worldwide.