One of the most notable advances of the last half century was the development of international human rights norms and procedures, with some degree of institutionalization within the United Nations. Human rights, perhaps as much as any topic of global significance, has reflected the influence of transnational civic associations, which have pushed governments and international institutions to take the subject seriously. Moreover, the complex pattern of the evolution of human rights reflects the unevenness of economic development, political outlook and civilizational values around the world.


Reflecting the importance of this fascinating area, this collection brings together representative selections of the best writing on the main dimensions of human rights.