Chapter Ten. Role Of Regional Human Rights Instruments In The Protection And Promotion Of Human Rights

Abstract

The role of regional international human rights instruments in the protection and promotion of human rights is remarkable in the sense that the treaties have significantly and immensely contributed to important changes in the laws of many countries. This chapter looks into three regional human rights instruments, namely the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, 1950; the Inter American Convention on Human Rights, 1969 and the African Charter on Human and People's Rights, 1981 and examines (a) the circumstances leading to the establishment of the regional human rights enforcement mechanisms; (b) the nature and scope of rights & guarantees and (c) safeguarding procedures under these instruments. It examines whether the enforcement mechanisms are, consistent with State sovereignty, and whether they are gradually enhancing the promotion of fundamental human rights and freedoms. Keywords: African Charter on Human and People's Rights; enforcement mechanisms; European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms; Inter American Convention on Human Rights; promotion of human rights; protection of human rights; regional human rights instruments; state sovereignty