Accountability and Rule of Law:

Question 1

Summery

Answer 1

Roth and Posner’s article “Have Human Rights Treaties Failed?” explores the effectiveness of international human rights treaties by examining arguments both in favor of and against these systems.

Overall, Roth and Posner highlight the complex interplay between the ideals of human rights treaties and the realities of their implementation, suggesting that while they have not fully succeeded, they still play a significant role in the global human rights landscape.

Question 2

Normative Framework:

Answer 2

Normative Framework: Human rights treaties establish a normative framework that helps shape national laws and practices, promoting accountability and awareness.

Question 3

Mobilization of Activism:

Answer 3

Mobilization of Activism: They serve as tools for activists and NGOs, providing a basis for advocacy and pressure on governments to uphold human rights.

Question 4

International Standards:

Answer 4

International Standards: Treaties create universal standards, encouraging states to adopt similar legal protections, thus fostering a global human rights culture.

Question 5

Monitoring Mechanisms:

Answer 5

Monitoring Mechanisms: Many treaties include monitoring bodies that can highlight abuses and hold states accountable, potentially deterring violations.

Question 6

Weak Enforcement:

Answer 6

Weak Enforcement: Treaties often lack robust enforcement mechanisms, making it difficult to hold violators accountable and leading to skepticism about their efficacy

Question 7

Cultural Relativism

Answer 7

Cultural Relativism: Critics argue that human rights frameworks can impose Western values on diverse cultures, leading to resistance and non-compliance.