Regional Human Rights Agreements
The main regional human rights agreements are treaties and declarations that protect human rights within a specific geographical area. These agreements often establish regional courts or commissions to monitor and enforce their provisions.
The European System
The European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) is the foundational human rights treaty for Europe. It was adopted in 1950 by the Council of Europe and created the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, France. This court provides a mechanism for individuals to bring cases against signatory states for human rights violations. The ECHR protects a wide range of civil and political rights, including the right to life, freedom from torture, and freedom of expression.
Inter-American System
The American Convention on Human Rights is the primary human rights instrument in the Americas. It was adopted in 1969 by the Organization of American States (OAS). The convention created the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, which are responsible for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Americas. It focuses mainly on civil and political rights.
African System
The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights was adopted in 1981 by the Organization of African Unity (now the African Union). This charter is unique because it includes not only individual rights, but also "peoples' rights" or collective rights, such as the right to self-determination and the right to development. It established the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights and the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights.