The Cyrus Cylinder, sometimes regarded as the oldest known declaration of human rights.

Introduction to Human Rights

Issues of human rights appear daily in the media. From civilians fleeing conflict zones to minorities seeking protection, the international community grapples with a range of complex human rights challenges on an ongoing basis. This subject explores the issue of human rights from multiple perspectives. It considers the history and philosophy of human rights, and contemporary human rights principles. It examines major human rights instruments and institutions, and international human rights law. It analyses the role of technology in promoting human rights and exposing human rights violations. Students will use their conceptual knowledge to probe human rights discourse through exploration of current issues in the field. Case studies of human rights violations will challenge students to critically reflect on current human rights mechanisms. This subject provides students with foundational knowledge for further research and/or advocacy in the field of human rights.

You can find out more about this course in the introductory video below: