Mannréttindadómstólsins

Mannréttindadómstólsins refers to the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), an international court established by the Council of Europe. Its primary function is to ensure that member states of the Council of Europe uphold the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the European Convention on Human Rights. The court's jurisdiction covers all matters concerning the interpretation and application of the Convention.

Individuals who believe their rights under the Convention have been violated by a member state, and who have exhausted all domestic remedies, can bring a case before the Court. The Court can also hear cases brought by member states against other member states. Its judgments are legally binding on the states concerned and aim to provide redress to victims and to prevent future violations.

The Court is composed of a number of judges equal to the number of member states. Judges are elected by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. The Court operates through committees, chambers, and a Grand Chamber, depending on the complexity and importance of the case. Its decisions have significantly influenced human rights law and practice across Europe, promoting a common standard of human rights protection among its member states.