Advancing Economic, Social and Cultural Rights: The Way Forward
Author(s)
Robinson, Mary
Abstract
Draws upon personal experiences as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to discuss how nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and other civil society actors can best influence states to implement their economic, social, and cultural (ESC) rights obligations. International steps that have been taken to make ESC rights equally as important as civil and political rights include new UN mandates in areas like education, food, and health care, and the development of human rights guidelines for Poverty Reduction Strategies. Attention is called to ways in which major international NGOs like Oxfam, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch have expanded their work to include research, policy planning, and advocacy around ESC rights. Key questions that have been raised include how to hold governments accountable; how ESC rights can become central to addressing such global challenges as extreme poverty or the AIDS pandemic; and “distributive justice.” Arguments related to the “naming and shaming” tool of international human rights organizations are explored. The need to identify opportunities to work effectively with new partners is emphasized.
