ICCPRstä

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) is a multilateral treaty adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 16, 1966. It was opened for signature on October 23, 1976, and entered into force on March 23, 1976. The ICCPR is one of the two main components of the International Bill of Human Rights, alongside the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). It commits its parties to respect the civil and political rights of individuals, including the right to life, freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, electoral rights, due process, and fair trial.

The ICCPR is overseen by the Human Rights Committee, a body of independent experts. States parties are required to submit periodic reports to the Committee on how their rights are being implemented. The Committee examines these reports and may issue concluding observations. The ICCPR also allows for individual complaints, meaning individuals who believe their rights under the covenant have been violated can petition the Human Rights Committee, provided their country has ratified the Optional Protocol to the ICCPR.

As of [current year], the ICCPR has been ratified by over 170 states. It represents a cornerstone of international human rights law, establishing legally binding obligations for states to protect and promote fundamental freedoms. Its provisions are often referenced in national legal systems and by international human rights bodies. The covenant’s broad scope and commitment to civil and political liberties make it a significant instrument in the global pursuit of human rights.