14.3 Human rights and development in a global context
3 min read•august 7, 2024
Global justice perspectives examine human rights and development in a worldwide context. This topic explores international frameworks like the , which sets standards for civil, political, economic, and for all people.
The discussion covers , 's impacts on inequality, and debates around . It also highlights the role of global civil society in promoting human rights and across borders.
International Human Rights Frameworks
Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Economic Rights
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- Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) adopted by the in 1948 establishes a common standard of fundamental human rights for all peoples and nations
- UDHR consists of 30 articles covering civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights considered inherent to all human beings regardless of race, gender, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status
- in the UDHR include the right to work, free choice of employment, just and favorable working conditions, protection against unemployment, equal pay for equal work, and the right to form and join trade unions
- UDHR also recognizes the right to an adequate standard of living, including food, clothing, housing, medical care, necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond one's control
Social Rights and Cultural Relativism
- Social rights in the UDHR encompass the right to education, which shall be free and compulsory at the elementary stages, and equally accessible at higher levels based on merit
- UDHR affirms the right to participate freely in the cultural life of the community, enjoy the arts, and share in scientific advancement and its benefits
- poses a challenge to the universality of human rights, arguing that moral and ethical norms are relative to the cultural context from which they derive
- Proponents of cultural relativism maintain that human rights should be interpreted and applied differently across cultures, taking into account diverse cultural, historical, and religious backgrounds (Islamic countries, Asian values debate)
Global Development and Inequality
Sustainable Development Goals and Globalization
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015 provide a shared blueprint for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all by 2030
- SDGs consist of 17 interconnected goals addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice
- Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of countries through the expansion of international trade, investment, communication, and cultural exchange
- Globalization has led to economic growth and poverty reduction in some regions (East Asia) but has also contributed to widening inequalities within and between countries (global North-South divide)
Global Inequality and Environmental Justice
- encompasses disparities in income, wealth, and access to opportunities and resources between individuals and countries
- Despite overall reductions in extreme poverty, the gap between the richest and poorest countries has widened, with the richest 1% owning more than twice as much wealth as 6.9 billion people
- seeks to address the disproportionate environmental burdens (pollution, resource depletion) borne by marginalized communities and countries
- Climate change disproportionately affects developing countries and vulnerable populations (small island states, sub-Saharan Africa) who have contributed least to greenhouse gas emissions
Global Actors and Intervention
Humanitarian Intervention and Global Civil Society
- Humanitarian intervention refers to the use of military force by external actors to address human rights violations, mass atrocities, or humanitarian crises within a sovereign state
- Debates surrounding humanitarian intervention center on questions of state sovereignty, international law, responsibility to protect (R2P), and the potential for abuse or unintended consequences (Iraq, Libya)
- Global civil society encompasses a wide range of non-state actors, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), social movements, advocacy groups, and citizen networks that operate across national borders
- Global civil society plays a crucial role in promoting human rights, sustainable development, and social justice by raising awareness, mobilizing public opinion, and holding governments and corporations accountable (, Greenpeace)
Key Terms to Review (25)
Amartya Sen: Amartya Sen is an influential Indian economist and philosopher known for his contributions to welfare economics and social choice theory, particularly through his capability approach. This approach emphasizes the importance of individual capabilities and functioning as a measure of well-being, moving beyond traditional economic metrics like income to assess social justice and development. His work has significantly influenced debates on justice, global poverty, and human development.
Amnesty International: Amnesty International is a global non-governmental organization focused on human rights advocacy, established in 1961. It works to promote and protect human rights by conducting research, mobilizing public support, and holding governments accountable for their actions. The organization's efforts are crucial in addressing violations of human rights around the world and promoting development that respects the dignity and rights of all individuals.
Capabilities approach: The capabilities approach is a theoretical framework that focuses on what individuals are able to do and be, emphasizing the importance of freedom and opportunities for human development. It shifts the emphasis from traditional economic measures, such as income or wealth, to the actual capabilities individuals have to achieve valued functionings in their lives, which is essential for assessing well-being and social justice.
Civil Rights: Civil rights refer to the fundamental rights and freedoms that protect individuals from discrimination and ensure equal treatment under the law. These rights are designed to guarantee individuals the ability to participate fully in society without fear of oppression, thereby promoting social justice and equality. In a global context, civil rights are essential in advocating for human dignity, equality, and non-discrimination as societies develop and evolve.
Cultural Relativism: Cultural relativism is the idea that a person's beliefs, values, and practices should be understood based on that person's own culture rather than be judged against the criteria of another culture. This concept emphasizes that different cultures have their own standards and moral frameworks, which can lead to significant debates about universal values and norms.
Economic rights: Economic rights are a subset of human rights that relate to the ability of individuals to participate in the economy, access resources, and ensure a standard of living adequate for health and well-being. These rights emphasize the importance of having access to work, fair wages, housing, education, and social security, which are essential for personal development and social stability.
Environmental Justice: Environmental justice refers to the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all individuals in environmental policies and decision-making processes, ensuring that no group of people, particularly marginalized communities, bears a disproportionate burden of environmental harms. This concept emphasizes the intersection of social justice and environmental protection, highlighting how human rights, equity, and sustainability are interconnected in the context of development.
Gender equality: Gender equality refers to the state in which individuals of all genders have equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities. It encompasses various dimensions, including economic participation, decision-making power, access to education, and freedom from violence and discrimination. Achieving gender equality is not only a fundamental human right but also essential for creating a just and equitable society that benefits everyone.
Genocide: Genocide refers to the intentional and systematic destruction of a racial, ethnic, national, or religious group, often carried out through mass killings, forced displacement, and other forms of violence. It is a grave violation of human rights and poses significant challenges for development and global peace efforts, as it undermines the very fabric of societies and creates long-lasting trauma among survivors.
Global inequality: Global inequality refers to the disparities in wealth, income, and access to resources and opportunities among different countries and populations around the world. These inequalities impact economic development, social justice, and human rights, as they often determine how individuals experience their lives based on their geographic location and socio-economic status.
Globalization: Globalization refers to the interconnectedness of countries and cultures through economic, political, and social exchanges. It encompasses the increasing movement of goods, services, information, and people across borders, leading to a more integrated global economy and society. This phenomenon significantly influences human rights and development as it brings both opportunities and challenges in addressing inequalities and promoting welfare on a global scale.
Human development approach: The human development approach emphasizes enhancing individual well-being and capabilities rather than merely focusing on economic growth. It integrates a broad understanding of development, incorporating elements like education, health, and human rights, aiming to empower people to lead fulfilling lives.
Humanitarian intervention: Humanitarian intervention refers to the use of military force by a state or group of states to protect human rights and alleviate human suffering in another state, particularly in situations of severe violations such as genocide, war crimes, or crimes against humanity. This concept often raises complex questions about state sovereignty, moral responsibility, and the role of international organizations in enforcing human rights on a global scale.
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights: The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) is a key international treaty that aims to protect the civil and political rights of individuals. Adopted by the United Nations in 1966, it establishes obligations for signatory states to respect and ensure a range of rights, including the right to life, freedom of speech, and the right to a fair trial. The ICCPR plays a crucial role in promoting human rights and development globally by setting standards that influence national laws and policies.
John Locke: John Locke was an influential English philosopher and political theorist in the 17th century, known for his ideas on natural rights, the state of nature, and the social contract. His work laid the groundwork for modern democratic thought and influenced various aspects of political philosophy, especially in relation to individual liberty, governance, and human rights.
Liberalism: Liberalism is a political philosophy that emphasizes individual freedoms, equality, and the protection of human rights within a framework of democratic governance. It advocates for limited government intervention in personal lives and promotes free markets, believing that individuals should have the freedom to pursue their own interests as long as they do not harm others. This philosophy has evolved over time, influencing various aspects of modern politics, including social contract theory, human rights, and the structure of governance.
Poverty alleviation: Poverty alleviation refers to efforts aimed at reducing the level of poverty and improving the living conditions of those who are economically disadvantaged. This concept emphasizes not just the reduction of income poverty, but also addresses social, economic, and political factors that contribute to poverty, promoting overall human development and rights.
Social Justice: Social justice is the concept that advocates for the fair and just distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society. It emphasizes the importance of equality, equity, and human rights, aiming to address systemic inequalities and promote the well-being of marginalized groups. Social justice intersects with various political philosophies and frameworks, including those that critique traditional social contract theories, explore anarchist principles, engage in debates between liberal and communitarian perspectives, examine principles like the difference principle and fair equality of opportunity, and consider human rights in a global context.
Social rights: Social rights are a category of human rights that guarantee individuals access to basic social and economic goods, such as education, health care, housing, and an adequate standard of living. These rights are essential for ensuring that all people can participate fully in society and benefit from development, thereby promoting equality and dignity in the global context.
Sustainable development goals: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global objectives established by the United Nations in 2015, aimed at addressing various social, economic, and environmental challenges worldwide by 2030. These goals seek to promote prosperity while protecting the planet and are interconnected, recognizing that progress in one area can impact others. They emphasize the importance of inclusivity and equity, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of sustainable development.
Torture: Torture refers to the intentional infliction of severe physical or psychological pain and suffering, often used as a means of punishment, coercion, or extracting information. This practice raises profound moral, ethical, and legal issues, particularly in discussions about human rights, as it directly violates fundamental human dignity and is universally condemned by international law.
United Nations: The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, aimed at promoting peace, security, and cooperation among nations. It serves as a platform for dialogue and negotiation to address global issues such as human rights, development, and humanitarian assistance, playing a crucial role in establishing international norms and fostering collaboration between member states.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a milestone document adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, outlining fundamental human rights that are universally protected. This declaration serves as a foundational text for international human rights law and has inspired various treaties, national constitutions, and human rights legislation across the globe. It emphasizes the inherent dignity and equal rights of all individuals, reflecting a global consensus on the importance of human rights in promoting justice and development.
Universal human rights: Universal human rights are the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to every person, regardless of nationality, sex, ethnicity, religion, or any other status. These rights are based on the principles of dignity, equality, and respect for all individuals, and they are recognized in international law as inherent to all humans. The concept serves as a foundation for promoting social justice and development in a global context.
Utilitarianism: Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that promotes actions that maximize happiness and well-being for the greatest number of people. It suggests that the moral worth of an action is determined by its overall contribution to utility, which is often defined in terms of pleasure or happiness versus pain or suffering. This concept deeply influences discussions around individual rights, governance, and global ethical frameworks.