Introduction to human rights

Question 1

What is the European Convention on Human Rights?

Answer 1

An international treaty to protect human rights and the fundamental freedoms in Europe.

Question 2

What is the legal significance of the Human Rights Act 1998?

Answer 2

Incorporated ECHR into UK law

Question 3

What rights are guaranteed by the European Convention on Human Rights?

Answer 3

The right to life
Freedom from torture or inhuman or degrading treatment

etc

Question 4

Which body has replaced the Commission for Race Equality?

Answer 4

The Equality and Human Rights Commission

Question 5

What is the European Charter of Fundamental Rights?

Answer 5

The Charter enshrines certain political, social and economic rights for EU citizens and residents into EU law. It was drafted by the European Convention and proclaimed on 7 December 2000 by the European Commission. However, its then legal status was uncertain and it did not have full legal effect until the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon on 1 December 2009.

Under the charter, the European Union must act and legislate consistently with the Charter and the EU’s courts will strike down legislation adopted by the EU’s institutions that contravenes it. The Charter applies to the Institutions of the EU and its member states when implementing EU law.

Question 6

What right is guaranteed in Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights?

Answer 6

Right to a fair trial