International Human Rights Law (JPJ2048) (LAW294H1S)

This course is a broad introduction to the law, theory, and practice of international human rights. It will explore the historical development and foundations of international human rights; the major international and regional human rights instruments and institutions; the legal and political mechanisms and strategies for implementation and enforcement; and selected current issues in the field. What is the role of human rights norms in a world of power politics and sovereign states? Under what conditions do human rights work? Are there any viable alternatives? 

The goal is not to become human rights experts but to ensure that students have a competent understanding of the landscape of international human rights and are well-equipped to think through the complexities of international human rights regime today.