2. The International Human Rights System

  2. Sessions
  3. 2. The International Human Rights System

This session provides an introduction to the international human rights system and how it has evolved since the Second World War.

Special focus is given to the establishment of the UN in 1945 and the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights three years later.

First, the students are to discuss in groups rules they think should be in force so that people can live good lives in a society. This reflection will prepare them for a lecture on the origin and content of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Afterwards the students will have a short period of follow-up group work before the session leader holds a second lecture on the international human rights system and how it functions today. It is possible to do the constituent parts separately or split them up with longer periods in between, but it is recommended that they are done together.

 LEARNING GOALS

The students shall
  • obtain knowledge about the history behind and the content of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)
  • understand that human rights are rights of individuals and that the state governments have the main responsibility to respect, promote and fulfil human rights
  • learn about the important difference between a declaration of and a convention on human rights, and what the states’ responsibilities are when they ratify human rights conventions
  • be able to use the international human rights system as a resource in their professional work

 

Description

Time
About 3 to 4 hours. 
Requirements

A large room with ample space for group work, large sheets of paper, pen and paper, a copy of the Universal Declaration for each participant.

Computer, projector and loudspeakers for showing film (internet access if the film has not been previously downloaded).

 
Preparation
Two lectures of about 30-40 minutes each: 1. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 2. The International Human Rights System.


Session

 Educational elements

 

Author:
Lillian Hjorth, Director, Human Rights Academy (Norway):
Marit Langmyr, Project Manager, Human Rights Academy (Norway)

An online manual on intercultural understanding, ethics and human rights to be used by teachers and students in journalism education. Read more.

Email : post@journalism-edu.org

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