The Universality of Human Rights:Myth or Reality?

Abstract

Abstract: This paper seeks to examine the universality of human rights since human rights are natural rights endowed on all human beings. Adopting a doctrinal research method, this paper questions if there is absoluteness in the universal application of these rights. Though the drafters of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ICCPR and ICESCR intended these rights to be universal, in reality it is not so. Therefore, findings reveal that, despite the Human Rights instruments and the Constitution of most countries echoing human rights in their preamble, the universal application of these rights remain a myth due to multiculturalism, disparities in legal systems and religion. It recommends the creation of a human right enforcement body under the UN to monitor the enforcement of basic human rights and mete sanctions in cases of violation.

Keywords: Human Rights, Universality, Multiculturalism