Part III Structural Principles, Ch.20 Democracy and the Rule of Law

Subject(s):

Rule of law — Democracy — Access to justice — Right to work — Right to social security — Right to education — Self-determination — Freedom of expression — Margin of appreciation

This article examines the role of the rule of law and democracy in international human rights law. It discusses the legal nature and the formal recognition of the rule of law and democracy. It explains that that rule of law and democracy are elements that constitute essential pillars promoting real enjoyment of human rights but they are dependent on the general conditions prevailing within society. This article highlights the importance of the supervisory roles of international bodies in ensuring the effectiveness of the guarantees set forth in international instruments for the protection of human rights.