Description
Book SynopsisThe purpose of this book is to provide a belief system to empower people using the democratic system and human rights law. This author contends that neo-liberalism has created a large underclass and has impinged upon the right to development for those who do not fit into the ''neo-liberal square''. Economic, social, and cultural rights, which have been rising in importance within the United Nations and have been denied to many, can be implemented using the core minimum obligations as defined by the General Comments of the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. This will go a long way toward civilizing neo-liberalism. Core minimum obligations such as ensuring basic shelter and housing and essential primary health care only amount to ''top-down'' provisions. This book argues that people are most likely to become aware of their human rights if these rights are taught using a more elementary, ''bottom-up'' approach. Consequently human rights education should also
Trade ReviewIn his noteworthy new book, Anthony Ravlich reminds us of the critical need for comprehensive human rights education in order for the poor and disadvantaged to be able to hold state's accountable to fulfill their minimum core obligations under economic and social human rights law. Ravlich accurately points to the devastating impact of structural violence and neoliberal economic policies on the lives of millions who now live in squalor and poverty. He effectively argues that economic globalization proceeded prematurely as it did not include simultaneous economic and social rights protection. Ravlich eloquently calls on states to stop "fudging" on their core minimum obligations and respect the economic rights of the poor. This informed study will be of great use to all concerned with social justice. -- William F. Felice, Eckerd College
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Table of Contents Chapter 2 1 The Rise of Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights Chapter 3 2 Political Tolerance and Core Minimum Obligations Chapter 4 3 The Politics of Human Rights and the Liberal Oligarchy Chapter 5 4 The History of Human Rights and the Most Disadvantaged Chapter 6 5 Lack of Will for Social Justice for the Most Disadvantaged at the UN Chapter 7 Annex 1: Universal Declaration of Human Rights Chapter 8 Annex 2: International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights Chapter 9 Annex 3: International Covenant of Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights Chapter 10 Annex 4: Draft Optional Protocol for the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights Chapter 11 Annex 5: The Declaration on the Right to Development
