1. What is your understanding of the concept of Human Rights?

Human rights are considered to be universal, inalienable, and indivisible. They

are universal in the sense that they apply to all human beings, regardless of their
nationality, ethnicity, or any other status. They are inalienable, meaning that they
cannot be granted or taken away by governments or other entities. They are
indivisible, meaning that the enjoyment of one right has a direct impact on the
enjoyment of others, and all must be respected and upheld.
Respecting and upholding human rights is crucial for creating a just and
equitable society, and for ensuring that all individuals can live with dignity and
respect. This requires the active participation and engagement of individuals,
governments, and other entities, and a commitment to creating a world in which
human rights are universally respected and upheld.

2. List at least three (2) basic or inherent human rights that you know. Provide an
example for each showing how these rights apply to all human being.

a. The Right to Freedom of Expression. Everyone can express their thoughts,

opinions, and ideas without fearing censorship or reprisal. This right
encompasses the freedom of speech, the press, and the right to assemble
peacefully.

b. Right to Education. Every individual is entitled to access education without

facing any form of discrimination. Governments must ensure that education is
easily accessible, of high quality, and available to all, irrespective of their socio-
economic backgrounds.

3. Human rights has seven (7) important characteristics. Provide one situation where
each of these characteristics apply.

a. Human rights are Inalienable. Every individual possesses the inherent right to
participate in the electoral process, including the right to vote and to elect
representatives. This right cannot be taken away or surrendered.

b. Human rights are imprescriptible. Freedom of belief and religion is a

fundamental human right that allows individuals to practice any religion they
choose without fear of persecution, discrimination, or coercion.

c. Human rights are interdependent. The right of individuals to freely practice

their religion and express their opinions are deeply intertwined, as both these
rights promote the more excellent ideal of freedom of thought. The ability to hold
personal beliefs and share one's viewpoints is essential to individual autonomy
and conscience.

d. Human rights are indivisible. Access to education and a decent standard of

living are fundamental human rights that contribute to the development and well-
being of individuals and communities. Education empowers people to fulfill their
 potential and opens up opportunities for personal growth and career
advancement, leading to a better quality of life. By ensuring that everyone has
access to education and a decent standard of living, we can create a more just
and prosperous society for all.
e. Human rights are fundamental. The principle of equality before the law is
crucial as it guarantees that everyone, regardless of their social or economic
status, receives fair and unbiased treatment from the legal system. This ensures
that justice is served without discrimination or partiality, promoting a more
inclusive and harmonious society.

f. Human rights are universal. It is vital to acknowledge that human rights are
universal and must be upheld for every person, regardless of their place of origin,
gender, race, religion, or cultural heritage. Our collective duty is to guarantee that
all individuals' human rights are honored, safeguarded, and satisfied, as we are
all equal in our humanity.

4. What are the three-fold obligations corresponding to human rights?

The three fundamental responsibilities that align with human rights are respect,
protect, and fulfill. The duty to respect requires the government to refrain from
impeding the realization of human rights. The duty to protect entails the
government's obligation to aid in the establishment and enforcement of laws that
safeguard individuals against human rights violations. Lastly, the duty to fulfill
mandates that the government actively contribute to the attainment and
accomplishment of exercising human rights.

5. Are all human rights absolute?

Human rights can be subject to limitations depending on the situation. Some

rights are considered absolute and cannot be restricted, while others may be limited
for public interest. Balancing competing rights and interests is necessary, and
economic and social rights may depend on available resources. The goal is to
protect individual rights while considering society's broader needs and interests.

6. Explain the duty of the State and the individual to carry out the three-fold
obligations of human rights.

The three-fold obligations of human rights refer to the duties placed on states
and individuals to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights. The State must refrain
from violating human rights, prevent others from doing so, and promote human
rights by providing essential services and creating an enabling environment.
Individuals must also respect, protect, and fulfill human rights by recognizing and
refraining from violating others' rights, reporting instances of human rights abuses,
and contributing positively to the realization of human rights. These obligations
emphasize the shared responsibility of both the State and individuals in creating a
society that respects, protects, and fulfills all rights.
7. A novel feature of the 1987 Constitution is the creation of the independent
constitutional office called the Commission on Human Rights. Give its two (2)
important functions.

a. The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is responsible for investigating and

monitoring human rights violations, gathering evidence, and recommending
remedial measures to address abuses. Its role ensures the protection of
human rights and promotes a just society.
b. The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) educates the public about human
rights and raises awareness. They organize campaigns and programs to
teach people about their rights and the importance of respecting the rights of
others. The CHR also advocates for better laws and policies protecting
human rights.

8. In your opinion, what is the most effective tool against human rights and
abuse? Explain.

In my opinion, having a solid legal framework is crucial in protecting human

rights. It provides legal protections and safeguards, promotes accountability and the
rule of law, allows for judicial remedies, acts as a deterrent, and aligns with
international human rights standards. However, effective enforcement, an
independent judiciary, public awareness, and advocacy efforts are vital in combating
human rights abuse.

9. As a criminology student, what do you expect to learn from this class.

As a criminology student, I am excited to understand the rights and freedoms
that every individual is entitled to. I look forward to thoroughly examining the
limitations and restrictions that can hinder these basic entitlements and uncovering
the crucial role of law enforcement in promoting human rights within the criminal
justice system. Additionally, I am eager to gain a firm grasp of the challenges faced
by law enforcement in balancing the maintenance of public order with respect for
fundamental rights. This topic is highly relevant and essential in today's society.

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