The Obligation to Promote

Under international human rights law, the state not only has the obligation to avoid, prevent and remedy human rights abuses, it must also do its utmost to advance awareness and acceptance of human rights. Human rights education is an integral part of the duties of human rights themselves. States bear the burden of promoting a culture of human rights and challenge beliefs that run counter to human rights through education, public awareness and other means, as well as ensuring the broadest access to knowledge and information about human rights standards and principles.

 

Examples:

  • States should ensure that all people have access to basic information regarding their rights; such information should be readily available and accessible in libraries, schools, government offices, and other public institutions.
  • States should actively engage in programs to raise awareness about women's rights to property, land and fair employment.
  • States should include awareness of economic, social and cultural rights in educational curricula.
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