International Human Rights Law

Faculty: E. Tendayi Achiume, Khaled Abou El Fadl, Kate Mackintosh

The rise of international human rights mechanisms in the twentieth century created a new paradigm through which to consider long-standing international problems. Whether in terms of the protection of individuals or groups, conflicts over resources, privileges and power are now increasingly mediated through the lens of human rights. 

This course serves as an introduction to the law, theory and practice of international human rights, together with the instruments, organizations and arrangements that affect their implementation and enforcement. 

Faculty: James Cavallaro

Taught by former President of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights James Cavallaro, this course provides an in-depth introduction and overview of the doctrine and practice of the Inter-American Human Rights System (IAHRS).

Students will examine the instruments that protect human rights in the IAHRS, the jurisprudence of the system, and the practice of the Inter-American Commission and Court of Human Rights.  The course will also examine the engagement, obstacles and opportunities the system provides for civil society groups, victims, and advocates. 

Faculty: Khaled Abou El Fadl

The course will provide an overview of the broad range of legal issues related to the growing international and domestic problem of human trafficking, examining a broad range of issues including human trafficking and international law, domestic and international anti-trafficking agencies and organizations, criminal and civil litigation in trafficking cases, and immigration law related issues.

Faculty: Nadedja Marques

How do human rights principles apply to the public health challenges faced by migrant populations? What is the situation of migrants arriving at the southern border of the United States? What are the main public health issues at the border and beyond? What does human rights as a frame have to say about these migrants? About migrants arriving in Portugal, Spain and Italy?

This course seeks to address these and other related questions by examining the intersection of public health, migration policy, and human rights standards. We do so by examining a series of case studies that consider the underlying issues from a variety of disciplines including economics, sociology, law, policy analysis, public health, and political science. Through this course, students will develop a critical understanding of the contemporary landscape and potential policy responses to promote public health and human rights in the international migration space.