Covid-19 and international law: Derogation of human rights under the inter-american system of human rights

Abstract

This article aims to study the implications of certain measures taken by American States, in order to address the COVID-19 Pandemic, on International Human Rights Law. Throughout this article, we will dive deep into the phenomenon of Human Rights derogations that are employed during exceptional public safety crisis. For that purpose, firstly, we will examine the context behind the protection of Human Rights under the Inter-American System. Next, attention will be paid to the exception of the universal application of International Human Rights Law. Thirdly, we will examine the most common practices adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they interact with specific Human Rights. Lastly, we contemplate some matters about the future of International Law. © The Author(s), 2021.