• Syed Abbas Hyder Shah

• Roll No# LLM/2k23/89

• Subject: Human Rights

• Teacher: Sir Sardar Ali Shah

1- Amnesty international Introduction:
Amnesty International is an international
nongovernmental organization focused on human rights,
with its headquarters in the United Kingdom. It was
founded in 1961 and operates in over 150 countries. The
organization says it has more than ten million members
and supporters around the world. The stated mission of
the organization is to campaign for “a world in which
every person enjoys all of the human rights enshrined in
the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other
international human rights instruments.”The organization
has played a notable role on human rights issues due to
its frequent citation in media and by world leaders.

• Mission:
Amnesty International’s mission is to protect and
promote human rights worldwide. They work to prevent
and stop abuses of human rights, such as torture,
discrimination, and unlawful imprisonment.
• Activities:
The organization conducts research, publishes reports,
and takes action to raise awareness about human rights
violations. They also mobilize people to advocate for
justice and work to hold governments and individuals
accountable for human rights abuses.

• Key Campaigns:
Amnesty International campaigns on a wide range of
issues, including freedom of speech, women’s rights,
refugee rights, and the abolition of the death penalty.
They also address issues related to armed conflict and
the treatment of prisoners.

• Grassroots Activism:
The organization has a strong grassroots network of
supporters and volunteers who participate in advocacy
efforts, fundraising, and awareness-raising activities.
• Impact:
Over the years, Amnesty International’s work has
contributed to the release of numerous prisoners of
conscience, changes in legislation, and increased
awareness of human rights issues.

• Funding:
Amnesty International is primarily funded by donations
from individuals and organizations. They maintain their
independence by not accepting funding from
governments or political parties that could compromise
their impartiality.

• Structure:
The organization is decentralized, with regional offices
and sections in various countries. Each section operates
independently but follows common principles and
campaigns set by the International Secretariat in London.
2- Helsinki Accord
The Helsinki Accords, also known as the Helsinki Final
Act, began with a diplomatic process that culminated in a
conference and the signing of the accords in 1975. Here’s
how it started and how it worked:
• Origins:
The origins of the Helsinki Accords can be traced back to
the early 1970s when the United States and the Soviet
Union, along with various European countries, began
exploring the possibility of a European security
conference. This initiative was driven by several factors,
including the desire to reduce tensions in Europe during
the Cold War, improve East-West relations, and address
issues related to European security.
• Diplomatic Negotiations:
Diplomatic negotiations for the Helsinki Accords took
place over a period of several years and involved
representatives from the participating states, including
the United States, the Soviet Union, and many European
countries. The negotiations covered a wide range of
topics, including security, economic cooperation, and
human rights.
 • Three Baskets:
The negotiations were divided into three “baskets,” each
addressing different aspects:
Basket I – Security:
This basket focused on security and cooperation in
Europe. It dealt with issues such as territorial integrity,
non-use of force, and peaceful settlement of disputes.
Basket II – Cooperation in Economics, Science, and
Technology:
This basket addressed economic and technological
cooperation among the participating states.
Basket III – Humanitarian Issues and Human Rights:
Basket III was of particular interest for human rights. It
included commitments related to human rights,
fundamental freedoms, and humanitarian matters.
• Helsinki Final Act:
The negotiations culminated in the signing of the Helsinki
Final Act on August 1, 1975, in Helsinki, Finland. The Final
Act was a comprehensive document that combined all
three baskets into a single agreement. It included
principles related to human rights, such as respect for
civil and political rights, freedom of thought, conscience,
religion, and the rights of national minorities.
 • Follow-Up Process:
The Helsinki Accords didn’t create a binding treaty but
rather a political commitment. However, it established a
process for monitoring and reviewing the
implementation of the accords. Regular meetings, known
as “Follow-Up Meetings,” were held to assess progress
and raise issues related to the accords. These meetings
allowed for discussions and exchanges among the
participating states.
• Impact:
The Helsinki Accords had a significant impact during the
Cold War by providing a framework for dialogue and
cooperation between East and West. They helped
improve relations and contributed to a reduction in
tensions. The human rights principles outlined in the
accords played a crucial role in advocating for human
rights in Eastern Europe and became a foundational
document for subsequent human rights movements.
In summary, the Helsinki Accords began as a diplomatic
process, culminating in the signing of the Helsinki Final
Act in 1975. They addressed various aspects of European
security, including human rights, and established a
framework for ongoing dialogue and monitoring of the
accords’ implementation. The accords had a lasting
impact on international diplomacy and human rights
advocacy.
3-French Declaration of Human Rights
The French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the
Citizen, also known as the Declaration of 1789, is a
fundamental document in the history of human rights. It
was adopted during the French Revolution on August 26,
1789. Here’s a detailed overview:
• Background:
The Declaration was a response to the political and social
upheaval of the French Revolution, which aimed to end
the absolute monarchy and establish a more democratic
and equitable society.
• Inspiration:
The Declaration was heavily influenced by the
Enlightenment philosophy of thinkers like Jean-Jacques
Rousseau, Voltaire, and Montesquieu, as well as by the
American Declaration of Independence.
• Key Principles:
Universal Rights:
It asserted the idea of universal rights for all citizens,
regardless of their social status or birth.
Liberty and Equality: The Declaration emphasized the
principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity (solidarity).
Property Rights: It recognized the right to private
property as a natural right.
Freedom of Speech and Religion:
Freedom of speech and religion were also acknowledged.
Structure: The Declaration is divided into a preamble and
17 articles. The preamble sets out the general principles,
while the articles detail specific rights and principles.
• Impact:
The French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the
Citizen had a profound impact on the development of
human rights globally. It served as a model for
subsequent declarations of rights and constitutions,
including the United Nations Universal Declaration of
Human Rights in 1948.
• Evolution:
The Declaration has undergone several revisions and
amendments in French constitutional history, reflecting
changing political circumstances.
• Legacy:
It remains a symbol of the struggle for individual and civil
rights and continues to influence discussions on human
rights and political philosophy.
 • Notable Quotations:
“Men are born and remain free and equal in rights.”
“The free communication of ideas and opinions is one of
the most precious of the rights of man.”
“No one shall be disquieted on account of his opinions,
including his religious views…”
This document played a pivotal role in the development
of modern democratic and human rights principles and
remains an important historical text.
4-English Bill of Rights
The English Bill of Rights is a historic document that
played a significant role in the development of
constitutional and human rights principles. It was
enacted in 1689, following the Glorious Revolution in
England, when William III of Orange and his wife Mary II
of England were invited to take the throne. Here is a
detailed overview of the English Bill of Rights:
1. Historical Context:
The English Bill of Rights was a response to the
oppressive and arbitrary rule of King James II, who had
attempted to expand his powers and establish a Catholic
monarchy in a predominantly Protestant country. This led
to widespread discontent and fears of tyranny.
2. Purpose:
The primary purpose of the English Bill of Rights was to
establish and safeguard individual rights and limit the
powers of the monarchy. It aimed to prevent future
monarchs from abusing their authority and violating the
rights of English citizens.
3. Key Provisions:
• Freedom of Speech in Parliament:
Members of Parliament were granted the right to speak
freely in debates without fear of prosecution.
Prohibition of Standing Armies in Peacetime: The Bill
limited the monarch’s ability to maintain a standing army
during peacetime without Parliament’s consent, thus
preventing the use of military force to suppress dissent.
• Right to Bear Arms:
Protestant subjects were allowed to bear arms for their
defense.
• Right to Petition the Monarch:
Subjects had the right to petition the king without fear of
retribution.
• Protection Against Cruel and Unusual Punishment:
The Bill prohibited cruel and unusual punishments
• Protections for Fair Trials:
It established the right to a fair trial, including the right to
a jury and protection against excessive bail and fines.
• Freedom from Excessive Bail and Fines:
It prevented the imposition of excessive bail or fines and
cruel or unusual punishments.
4. Impact:
The English Bill of Rights laid the foundation for the
constitutional monarchy and the rule of law in England. It
established the supremacy of Parliament and the
principles of limited government, individual rights, and
the separation of powers. It served as a precursor to the
development of democratic institutions and influenced
the framing of later documents, such as the U.S. Bill of
Rights (1791).
5. Human Rights Connection:
While the English Bill of Rights was primarily a
constitutional document with a focus on the relationship
between the monarchy and Parliament, it did establish
key principles that are fundamental to human rights,
such as freedom of speech, fair trial, and protection
against cruel and unusual punishment. These principles
have been influential in shaping modern conceptions of
human rights and the rule of law.

In summary, the English Bill of Rights was a pivotal

document in the history of constitutionalism and human
rights, as it set important precedents for the protection
of individual liberties and the limitation of governmental
authority.
5-Magna Carta
The Magna Carta, also known as the “Great Charter,” is a
foundational document in the history of human rights
and constitutional law. Here’s a detailed overview of its
history, facts, principles, significance, and impact:
History:
• Origins:
The Magna Carta was sealed by King John of England on
June 15, 1215, in response to a rebellion by his barons
who were frustrated with his arbitrary rule.
• Immediate Context:
King John’s reign was marked by heavy taxation, abuse of
power, and conflicts with his nobles. The barons sought
to limit the king’s authority and protect their own rights
and privileges.
Facts:
• Key Provisions:
The Magna Carta contained 63 clauses, which addressed
various grievances and rights. Notable provisions
included limitations on royal power, protection of church
rights, and guarantees of legal and property rights.
• Witnesses:
The document was witnessed and sealed by royal officials
and barons, making it a binding agreement.
 • Distribution:
Copies of the Magna Carta were sent to important towns
and religious institutions, ensuring its widespread
dissemination.
Principles:
• Rule of Law:
The Magna Carta established the principle that even the
king was subject to the law, ensuring that no one,
including the monarch, was above the law.
• Due Process:
It emphasized the importance of fair legal procedures
and protection of property rights.
• Consent of the Governed:
The king’s authority was to be exercised with the consent
of the barons, laying the groundwork for representative
government.
Significance:
• Historical Milestone:
The Magna Carta is a landmark in the development of
constitutional and human rights, as it limited the
absolute power of the monarchy.
 • Influence:
It served as an inspiration for later documents such as
the United States Constitution and the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights.
• Legal Precedent:
The principles of the Magna Carta became integral to the
legal and political systems of many nations, shaping the
concept of individual rights and the rule of law.
Impact:
• Limitation of Monarch’s Power:
The Magna Carta laid the groundwork for constitutional
and parliamentary systems, shifting power from the
monarchy to a more balanced government.
• Human Rights:
It contributed to the development of human rights,
including the right to a fair trial, protection against
arbitrary imprisonment, and the right to property.
• Legacy:
The Magna Carta remains a symbol of the enduring
struggle for civil liberties and the rule of law.
In summary, the Magna Carta is a foundational document
that marked a turning point in the history of human
rights and constitutional law by introducing principles of
limited government, due process, and the rule of law that
continue to shape modern societies.