vähimmäisoikeusperiaate

The vähimmäisoikeusperiaate, or minimum rights principle, is a concept in law and ethics that suggests all individuals possess a fundamental set of basic rights that should be protected regardless of their circumstances or location. This principle often serves as a baseline for evaluating the fairness and legitimacy of legal systems and social structures. It implies that even in situations where rights might be restricted or modified, a core set of entitlements must always be upheld to ensure human dignity and prevent absolute deprivation.

The exact scope of what constitutes a "minimum right" can vary depending on the philosophical or legal framework being applied. However, common examples often include the right to life, freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, and the right to a fair trial. The vähimmäisoikeusperiaate is particularly relevant in contexts such as international human rights law, humanitarian law, and discussions about the rights of vulnerable populations. It underscores the idea that certain rights are inherent and inalienable, forming the bedrock of a just society.