The "International Human Rights Law" course offers an in-depth exploration of human rights within the global legal context. The course begins by introducing students to the foundational concept of human rights, tracing their historical development, and examining key international treaties and conventions that serve as the backbone of human rights law. Students will learn about seminal documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the International Covenants on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), which provide the framework for modern human rights protections.

The course goes on to explore the sources and principles of international human rights law, including customary international law, treaties, and core principles like non-discrimination, equality, and dignity. Students will understand the roles of international bodies, especially the United Nations, in safeguarding human rights globally. The course also covers regional human rights systems, such as the European Court of Human Rights and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, highlighting the global nature of human rights protection and the mechanisms in place to uphold these rights across borders.

An important part of the course focuses on the different categories of human rights, starting with civil and political rights, such as the right to life, liberty, security, and freedom of expression. The course also addresses economic, social, and cultural rights, such as the right to education, health, and an adequate standard of living, along with the complexities of balancing economic rights with developmental challenges. Students will also explore the rights of vulnerable groups, including women, children, refugees, and displaced persons, and the contemporary challenges in human rights law, such as digital rights, environmental justice, and combating racial discrimination.

Human rights in armed conflicts and post-conflict situations are another crucial topic, as students study the intersection of international humanitarian law and human rights law, as well as the protection of civilians in conflict zones. The course concludes with a deep dive into human rights advocacy, examining the roles of NGOs, civil society, and grassroots movements, as well as national and international mechanisms for human rights implementation. With a look towards the future, students will explore emerging human rights challenges related to technological advancements and global interconnections.

Throughout the course, students engage with case studies, practical applications, and ethical considerations, preparing them to analyze landmark human rights cases and navigate ethical dilemmas in human rights practice. The course also encourages reflection on the significance of human rights law and its role in fostering global justice.