Myth or Lived Reality: On the (In)Effectiveness of Human Rights

This book explores whether human rights are a myth or a lived reality, looking at institutional challenges, national implementation mechanisms, and individual benefits. It brings together scholars from different careers and methodological perspectives, benefiting researchers, practitioners, NGOs, and students.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 227 pages
Publication date: 23 April 2022
Publisher: T.M.C. Asser Press

This book delves into the intricate relationship between human rights and various aspects of society, aiming to ascertain whether they are merely a myth or a tangible reality. Over the years, there has been a widespread debate regarding the effectiveness of human rights, encompassing both institutional challenges at the international level and national implementation mechanisms. Additionally, questions have arisen regarding the actual benefits individuals and groups derive from the normative guarantees enshrined in human rights law, as well as the feasibility of translating these legal constructs into improved outcomes.

What sets this volume apart from existing literature is its unique composition. It brings together scholars from diverse career stages, each offering their perspectives through different methodological approaches. The book covers a wide range of topics, making it an invaluable resource for human rights researchers, practitioners, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and students alike.

Chapter 1, titled "How Human Rights Cross-Pollinate and Take Root: Local Governments & Refugees in Turkey," explores the interplay between human rights and local governments in the context of refugee populations. Authored by Elif Durmuş, the chapter examines how local governments in Turkey have responded to the challenges posed by refugee influx, highlighting both positive and negative practices. It sheds light on the role of local governments in promoting human rights and providing assistance to refugees, as well as the barriers they face in doing so.

Chapter 2, titled "Human Rights Localisation and Individual Agency: From 'Hobby of the Few to the Few Behind the Hobby," delves into the concept of human rights localisation and individual agency. Authored by Tihomir Sabchev, Sara Miellet, and Elif Durmuş, the chapter examines how human rights can be effectively implemented at the local level. It explores the role of individuals and groups in advocating for human rights and promoting change, highlighting the importance of grassroots movements and community engagement.

Chapter 3, titled "The Role of Local Actors in the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights: A Comparative Analysis," examines the role of local actors in promoting and protecting human rights. Authored by Claire Boost, Andrea Broderick, and Fons Coomans, the chapter compares the experiences of different countries in promoting and protecting human rights, highlighting the successes and challenges encountered. It explores the strategies employed by local actors, such as NGOs, civil society, and local governments, to promote human rights and address human rights violations.

Chapter 4, titled "The Challenges of Human Rights Implementation in Post-Conflict Settings: The Case of Colombia," explores the challenges of human rights implementation in post-conflict settings. Authored by Claire Boost, Andrea Broderick, and Fons Coomans, the chapter examines the case of Colombia, highlighting the efforts made by the government and civil society to promote human rights and address the legacy of violence and conflict. It explores the challenges faced by local actors in implementing human rights in post-conflict contexts and the strategies employed to overcome them.

Chapter 5, titled "The Role of Local Actors in the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights: A Comparative Analysis," examines the role of local actors in promoting and protecting human rights. Authored by Claire Boost, Andrea Broderick, and Fons Coomans, the chapter compares the experiences of different countries in promoting and protecting human rights, highlighting the successes and challenges encountered. It explores the strategies employed by local actors, such as NGOs, civil society, and local governments, to promote human rights and address human rights violations.

Chapter 6, titled "The Challenges of Human Rights Implementation in Post-Conflict Settings: The Case of Colombia," explores the challenges of human rights implementation in post-conflict settings. Authored by Claire Boost, Andrea Broderick, and Fons Coomans, the chapter examines the case of Colombia, highlighting the efforts made by the government and civil society to promote human rights and address the legacy of violence and conflict. It explores the challenges faced by local actors in implementing human rights in post-conflict contexts and the strategies employed to overcome them.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex relationship between human rights and various aspects of society. It sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that arise in promoting and protecting human rights at the local, national, and international levels. By bringing together scholars from diverse backgrounds and methodological perspectives, the book provides valuable insights into the field of human rights and contributes to the ongoing discourse on the effectiveness and relevance of human rights in today's world.

Weight: 385g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789462654495
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021