Economic, socialand cultural rights in the present international economic context

Abstract

This article analyses globalisation processes in the international economic context and the manner in which these processes are conditioning the lives and rights of millions of people. It argues that the idea that the dismantling of social security systems can be justified in the name of economic liberty has served to multiply the cases where economic, social and cultural rights are being trampled upon. In this context reference is made to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which is based on the principle of the indivisibility of human rights since it caters both for civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural rights; without imposing any hierarchical order between these two categories of rights. Reference is also made to the International Treaty of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, which requires progressive compliance to ensure continual improvement in living conditions. The author then examines whether this requirement is being put into effect against the backdrop of past and present trends in world economic structures; especially of what has been termed the: "neo-liberal globalisation" of world economies. He argues that whilst economic globalisation is promoted as modern and necessary, it is in reality a step backwards which is negatively affecting the enforcement of economic, social and cultural rights.