The UN as a Human Rights Violator? Some Reflections on the United Nations Changing Human Rights Responsibilities

Human Rights Quarterly, Vol. 25, p. 314, 2003

17 Pages Posted: 1 Dec 2008

See all articles by Frederic Megret

Frederic Megret

McGill University - Faculty of Law

Florian Hoffmann

affiliation not provided to SSRN

Abstract

This article attempts to explore how changes in the UN's mission may force it to rethink its responsibilities in terms of human rights. Until recently, the UN had never thought of itself as actually capable of violating human rights. But a number of evolutions have made this a possibility. Starting with peace operations and culminating with the international administration of entire territories, the UN is increasingly taking on sovereign-like functions. This evolution may be seen as a larger metaphor for what the UN is becoming, from a traditional inter-governmental organization to one increasingly entrusted with tasks of global governance. With these new powers, it would seem, come new responsibilities.

Suggested Citation

Mégret, Frédéric and Hoffmann, Florian, The UN as a Human Rights Violator? Some Reflections on the United Nations Changing Human Rights Responsibilities. Human Rights Quarterly, Vol. 25, p. 314, 2003, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1282055

Frédéric Mégret (Contact Author)

McGill University - Faculty of Law ( email )

3644 Peel Street
Montreal H3A 1W9, Quebec H3A 1W9
Canada

Florian Hoffmann

affiliation not provided to SSRN ( email )

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