Nature of Human Rights

The nature of human rights can be understood from several perspectives, including their origin, universality, indivisibility, interdependence, and inherent nature.

Inherent and universal: Human rights are considered inherent to all individuals by virtue of their humanity. They are not granted or conferred by any particular authority or government but are seen as fundamental and inalienable. Human rights are also considered universal, meaning they apply to all people, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, or any other characteristic.

Inherent dignity: Human rights are grounded in the inherent dignity and worth of every human being. They recognise the equal and inherent value of all individuals, emphasising that each person deserves respect, freedom, and protection from harm and discrimination.

Interdependence and indivisibility: Human rights are interrelated, indivisible, and mutually reinforcing. They form an interconnected framework where the realisation of one right often depends on the respect and fulfilment of other rights. For example, the right to education is closely linked to the right to freedom of expression and the right to an adequate standard of living.

International legal framework: Human rights are enshrined in international legal instruments, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), regional human rights treaties, and domestic legislation. These instruments provide a framework for the promotion, protection, and accountability of human rights at the national and international levels.

Protection against abuse: Human rights protect individuals against abuses of power by both state and non-state actors. They set standards for the behaviour of governments, institutions, and individuals, serving as a check on arbitrary actions and ensuring that individuals have recourse and remedies when their rights are violated.

Participation and empowerment: Human rights emphasise the importance of individual and collective participation in decision-making processes that affect their lives. They empower individuals to claim their rights, contribute to society, and participate in shaping policies and laws that impact them.

Progressive development: Human rights are not static but subject to progressive development and interpretation. As societies evolve and new challenges arise, the understanding and application of human rights can expand to address emerging issues and ensure their continued relevance.

While the concept of human rights is widely accepted, debates can arise regarding their interpretation and the balance between individual rights and collective interests. Nevertheless, the recognition and promotion of human rights serve as a fundamental framework for promoting equality, justice, and dignity for all individuals, shaping legal, social, and political systems around the world.
Back to blog
UOLLB SQE Turbocharge

UOLLB SQE Turbocharge

Get ready for the SQE1 with high-performance SQE Study Guides developed by UOLLB and published by UOL Press to revolutionise your study method and exam strategy.

Turbocharge SQE Performance Here

UOL Case Bank

Upon joining, you become a valuable UOL student and gain instant access to over 2,100 essential case summaries. UOL Case Bank is constantly expanding.
Speed up your revision with us now👇

Subscribe Now

Where are our students from?

Council of Europe
Crown Prosecution Service
Baker Mckenzie 
Yale University
University of Chicago
Columbia University
New York University
University of Michigan 
INSEAD
University of London
University College London (UCL)
London School of Economics (LSE)
King’s College London (KCL)
Royal Holloway, University of London 
Birkbeck, University of London
SOAS, University of London
University of Manchester
University of Zurich
University of York
Brandeis University
University of Exeter
University of Sheffield
Boston University
University of Washington
University of Leeds
University of Law
University of Kent
University of Hull
Queen’s University Belfast
Toronto Metropolitan University
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
University of Buckingham
ESSEC Business School

  • Criminal Practice

    Diagrams and Charts

    Our carefully designed diagrams and charts will guide you through complex legal issues.

  • Criminal Law

    Clear and Succinct Definitions

    Key concepts are concisely defined to help you understand legal topics quickly.

  • Property Law

    Statutory Provisions

    Statutory provisions are provided side by side with legal concepts to help you swiftly locate the relevant legislation.

  • Public Law

    Case Summaries

    We have summarised important cases for you so that you don't need to read long and boring cases.

  • Evidence

    Rules and Exceptions

    Rules and exceptions are clearly listed so that you know when a rule applies and when it doesn't.

  • Company Law

    Terminology

    Legal terms and key concepts are explained at the beginning of each chapter to help you learn efficiently.

  • Case Law

    Case law is provided side by side with legal concepts so that you know how legal principles and precedents were established.

  • Law Exam Guide

    Law Essay Guide

    You will learn essential law exam skills and essay writing techniques that are not taught in class.

  • Law Exam Guide

    Problem Question Guide

    We will show you how to answer problem questions step by step to achieve first-class results.

  • Conflict of Laws

    Structured Explanations

    Complex legal concepts are broken down into concise and digestible bullet point explanations.

  • Legal System and Method

    Legal Research

    You will learn legal research techniques with our study guide and become a proficient legal researcher.

  • Jurisprudence and Legal Theory

    Exam-focused

    All essential concepts, principles, and case law are included so that you can answer exam questions quickly.