The Politicalisation of Human Rights

In this lesson we are going to try and answer the question 'are economic sanctions for human rights, in themselves, an abuse of human rights'. But first, however, we need to consider exactly what is meant by economic sanctions. By the way, we are going to explore lots of sources this lesson and take time to discuss them as we move through the class. It is worth taking time now decide the structure for your note-taking.

Now, based on what we have just seen... what do you think? Are economic sanctions themselves a violation of human rights. Don't worry, you will have chance to modify your answer as we go along.

A bit of reading for you here. Check out this article from the International Association from Political Science Students.
Does this this make you change your answer?

Ok, what about this video which explore the ethical dimension of economic sanctions?

Humanitarian Intervention

Humanitarian Intervention GWP.pdf

HR Intervention - Heywood.pdf

Human Rights Essay

In this essay we will try and pull a few of the different threads of the course so far together. This is largely an ideas and concepts based essay, but as always you will need to use some examples to illustrate your understanding. Below is the essay topic and the Paper 2 mark scheme

In an international system with sovereignty as the key organizing principle, can humanitarian intervention be justified? Discuss

Level Descriptor

The work does not reach a standard described by the descriptors below.

1 - 5

The response reveals limited understanding of the demands of the question.
The response is poorly structured, or where there is a recognizable essay structure there is minimal focus on the task.
There is little relevant knowledge, and examples are either lacking or not relevant
The response is mostly descriptive.

6 - 10

The response indicates some understanding of the demands of the question.
There is some evidence of an attempt to structure the response.
Some relevant knowledge is present, and some examples are mentioned but they are not developed or their relevance to arguments is not clear.
The response demonstrates limited understanding of fundamental political concepts and approaches.
There is limited justification of main points.
Counterclaims are not considered.

11 - 15

The demands of the question are understood and mostly addressed but the implications are not considered.

There is a clear attempt to structure the response.

The response is mostly based on relevant and accurate knowledge of global politics, and relevant examples are given and support arguments.

The response demonstrates some understanding of fundamental political concepts and approaches.

Many of the main points are justified and arguments are largely coherent.

Some counterclaims are considered.

16 - 20

The demands of the questions are understood and addressed, and most implications are considered.
The response is well-structured.
The response demonstrates relevant and accurate knowledge and understanding of global politics, and relevant examples are used in a way that strengthens arguments.
The response demonstrates a good grasp of fundamental political concepts and approaches.
All or nearly all of the main points are justified and arguments are coherent.
Counterclaims are explored.

21 – 25

A very well structured and balanced response that addresses the demands and implications of the question.
Comprehensive knowledge and in-depth understanding of global politics is applied in the response consistently and effectively, with examples integrated.
The response demonstrates a very good grasp of fundamental political concepts and approaches.
All of the main points are justified. Arguments are clear, coherent and compelling.
Counterclaims are explored and evaluated.