Human Rights

International law of human rights. Guide to international and regional human rights protection mechanisms, treaties, jurisprudence and commentary.

Available Online

Key Resources

EUROPEAN HUMAN RIGHTS SYSTEM > Human Rights Protection Mechanisms

The Directorate General of Human Rights and Legal Affairs has overall responsibility for the development and implementation of the human rights and rule of law standards of the Council of Europe, including the promotion of democracy through law, the operation of relevant treaties and related monitoring mechanisms and the development and implementation of activities in these fields.

Human rights, democracy and the rule of law are core values of the European Union. Embedded in its founding treaty, they have been reinforced by the adoption of a Charter of Fundamental Rights. Countries seeking to join the EU must respect human rights. So must countries which have concluded trade and other agreements with it.