Introduction
The right to life is a fundamental human right that is inherent to all individuals and cannot be taken away. It falls under the category of human rights, which are universally recognized and protected. It encompasses the belief that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, possesses an inherent right to live and should not be deprived of this right without just cause. Therefore, the purpose of this term paper is to critically analyze the protection of the right to life under human rights instruments.
- Protection of the Right to Life under international Human rights instruments
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
This human rights instrument lays the groundwork for universal reverence for human rights, which are enshrined in legally binding instruments. It emphasizes the necessity of safeguarding everyone’s right to life from arbitrary deprivation. The right to life is a fundamental human right that serves as the bedrock of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). As one of the core principles enshrined in the UDHR, the right to life plays a pivotal role in protecting the inherent dignity and value of each individual. Article 3 of the UDHR explicitly acknowledges the right to life as “everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person.”
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
The right to life, as outlined in Article 6 of the ICCPR, encompasses the inherent and inviolable right of every individual to live and not be arbitrarily deprived of their life. It includes protection against intentional killings, extrajudicial executions, and other acts that pose a threat to an individual’s life.
State Obligations and Commitments under ICCPR
State Parties to the ICCPR are obligated to respect, protect, and fulfil the right to life. This includes refraining from arbitrary or unlawful deprivation of life, conducting impartial investigations into any suspicious deaths, and holding perpetrators accountable. States also have a duty to prevent and address threats to life, such as violence, discrimination, and environmental harm. They must adopt effective measures to ensure access to healthcare, adequate living conditions, and the necessary resources for survival.
- The Protection of Right to Life under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights
The right to life is the foremost substantive right guaranteed in the Charter. Article 4 states that “human beings are inviolable. Every individual is entitled to respect for their life and the integrity of their person. ” No one can be arbitrarily deprived of this right.”
Concluding Remarks
The right to life is a fundamental human right guaranteed by international and regional human rights instruments for every human being for the mere fact of being Human. It not only holds immense importance on its own but also serves as a crucial foundation for the attainment of all other basic human rights and fundamental freedoms. States must uphold this right, with a legal obligation to respect, protect, and fulfil it, thereby ensuring the well-being and security of every individual.
