This module explores the historical, philosophical and political origins of the modern human rights regime. The module will then examine  some of the major debates underpinning the role of human rights in international relations, such as: the emergence of ideas concerning ‘rights’ and the specific development of the concept of ‘human rights’; discussions on Universalism and Relativism; issues around the implementation and enforcement of human rights standards; and questions on the best mechanisms for dealing with human rights violations. A key focus of the course will then be to critically apply these debates to contemporary human rights issues such as: human rights advocacy and application in the international system; human rights during conflict; the human rights of refugees; indigenous and minority rights; protecting the rights of women, children and sexual minorities; the question of the rights of future generations (particularly in terms of environmental responsibilities); and the broader future of human rights within international relations.

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

1. Demonstrate that you understand the key moments, issues and debates around the emergence of ideas concerning ‘rights’ and the specific development of the contested concept of ‘human rights’ (within both Western and non-Western contexts).
2. Demonstrate that you identify the key moments and international instruments in the establishment of the modern human rights regime.
3. Show that you understand the major theoretical debates within the human rights discourse.
4. Demonstrate that you understand the space and place human rights issues occupy in wider international relations debates and practice.
5. Demonstrate that you can discuss the intersection between theories of human rights and the application of human rights standards.

10%: in-class exercise (learning outcome 5)

60%: 4,000 word assessment (learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5)

30%: 2,000 word take-home exam (learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5) 

Contact hours will consist of a three hour workshop per week. Workshops will run for 11 weeks. There will be an additional two weeks of self-directed study. There is an expectation of an additional 3 hours per week of independent study.

None

None

An e-brick with a range of readings for each week will be prepared by lecturer. Indicative texts include:

• Carey, Gibney and Poe, The Politics of Human Rights: The Quest for Dignity (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2010)
• Forsythe, Human Rights in International Relations (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2006)
• Symonides, Human Rights: Concepts and Standards (London: Ashgate, 2000)
• Hayner, Unspeakable Truths: Transitional Justice and the Challenge of Truth Commissions (London: Routledge, 2011)

Chappell, Chesterman & Hill The Politics of Human Rights in Australia (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2009)