rights

Rights are entitlements that individuals or groups possess, derived from moral principles, social norms, or legal rules. They authorize actions, protect individuals from harm, or oblige others to act or refrain. Rights may be moral or legal; natural rights are thought to be inherent and universal, while legal rights arise from laws and constitutions.

Rights are commonly divided into negative rights, which require others to avoid interference, and positive rights, which obligate provisions of goods or services. They are also categorized as civil and political rights (such as freedom of expression and due process) and economic, social, and cultural rights (such as education, health, and work).

Historically, natural-rights theory influenced constitutional charters and modern human rights law. Key milestones include Magna Carta, the Bill of Rights, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with later treaties such as the ICCPR and ICESCR shaping international obligation. Enforcement rests on courts, tribunals, ombudspersons, and international bodies, with varying effectiveness across countries.

Rights are not absolute; states may impose limits to protect public safety, order, or the rights of others, provided procedures are fair, proportional, and discrimination is avoided.

Contemporary issues include digital and privacy rights, data protection, access to information, and rights of minorities and marginalized groups. Debates focus on universality versus cultural relativism and on balancing competing rights within compatible legal frameworks.