International Human Rights Law: Its Validity for States and for Citizens

What do Human Rights mean in national legal and judicial systems? Where and how can one defend against their violation? Are there international bodies that an individual can turn to? Is filing a complaint in court viable? International Human Rights Law (IHRL) is a new legal system for the defense and protection of human rights worldwide. It articulates dozens of treaties, generally subsequent to the entry into force in 1976 of the two International Covenants, ratified by Spain and a large majority of States. Twenty-seven specialists summarize here the essentials of IHRL. They also detail it on specific topics such as race, women, torture, children, emigration, disability, trafficking, corruption, regional protection systems, and courts that judge non-compliance. As a reference book it includes eight annexes, useful for deepening and communicating the subject in educational, journalistic, cultural, professional, or family settings. Without the progressive implementation of Human Rights in all nations, beyond rhetoric, there will be no lasting peace. But many citizens have not had time to fully understand what perspectives IHRL opens up for them. This work addresses them in a style that is both accessible and rigorous.