Righting the Economy: Towards a People's Recovery from Economic and Environmental Crisis

Human rights and economics are increasingly being linked, with human rights actors calling for a rights-based or human-rights economy that puts the economy at the service of communities facing social and economic inequality, climate catastrophe, and corporate abuses. This book explores what a rights-based economy would look like and the tools and actions needed to achieve it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Agenda Publishing

Human rights and economics are two distinct yet interconnected realms that often go unnoticed in the same conversation. However, a growing chorus of human rights actors is advocating for a significant shift towards a rights-based or human-rights economy. This vision seeks to place the economy at the service of communities facing extreme social and economic inequality, climate catastrophe, and corporate abuses.

The economies we inhabit shape our daily lives and constitute systems that have the potential to profoundly impact our ability to exercise our rights to decent work, adequate healthcare, political participation, freedom from violence, and various other fundamental entitlements. This book aims to systematize academic and practitioner analyses and experiences, drawing from diverse epistemologies, literatures, and case studies, to explore the contours of a rights-based economy and the necessary tools and actions, including economic, legal, environmental, and social measures, to achieve it.

A rights-based economy recognizes the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals and seeks to ensure that economic activities and policies prioritize the well-being and rights of all members of society. It aims to address the root causes of inequality and injustice, such as poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to basic resources, while promoting sustainable development and social justice.

One key aspect of a rights-based economy is the recognition of the rights of workers, including the right to fair wages, safe working conditions, and the freedom to form and join labor unions. It also emphasizes the importance of social protection programs, such as healthcare, education, and social security, to ensure that all individuals have access to essential services and can live with dignity.

Another critical component of a rights-based economy is the protection of the environment and the promotion of sustainable development. This includes addressing climate change, protecting natural resources, and promoting renewable energy sources to ensure a healthy planet for future generations.

Corporate accountability and responsibility are also essential elements of a rights-based economy. Companies must be held accountable for their actions and held to account for any harm they cause to individuals, communities, or the environment. This includes implementing ethical business practices, respecting human rights, and engaging in sustainable and socially responsible activities.

In conclusion, human rights and economics are closely intertwined, and a rights-based economy represents a transformative vision for a more equitable and just society. By placing the economy at the service of communities facing social and economic inequality, climate catastrophe, and corporate abuses, we can create a more prosperous and sustainable future for all. However, achieving this vision requires a collective effort, including policymakers, businesses, civil society organizations, and individuals, to prioritize the rights and well-being of all members of society.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 234 x 157 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788216876