1. Course Overview

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the international system for the protection and promotion of human rights. It explores the institutional frameworks, treaty bodies, and enforcement mechanisms at the global and regional levels, with a focus on how individuals and states interact with these systems in practice.

2. Course Content

• Introduction to international human rights law

• UN Charter-based bodies (Human Rights Council, Universal Periodic Review)

• Treaty-based monitoring bodies (ICCPR, ICESCR, CAT, CEDAW, CRC)

• Individual complaints mechanisms

• Regional human rights systems (African, European, Inter-American systems)

• Fact-finding missions and special rapporteurs

• Enforcement challenges and state compliance

• Case studies on landmark human rights decisions

3. Learning Outcomes & Acquired Skills

Knowledge Outcomes

• Understanding of global and regional human rights frameworks

• Familiarity with treaty bodies and reporting procedures

• Awareness of enforcement limitations and compliance mechanisms

Professional Skills

• Legal analysis of human rights violations

• Drafting shadow reports and complaint submissions

• Interpretation of treaty obligations and state reports

Practical Competencies

• Preparing submissions to human rights bodies

• Assessing admissibility of individual complaints