TED-Ed - Term 1 Week 5

What are the universal human rights? - Benedetta Berti

The basic idea of human rights is that each one of us, no matter who we are or where we are born, is entitled to the same basic rights and freedoms. That may sound straightforward enough, but it gets incredibly complicated as soon as anyone tries to put the idea into practice. What exactly are the basic human rights? Who gets to pick them? Who enforces them—and how? Benedetta Berti explores the subtleties of human rights.

1. Human rights are universal and apply to everybody no matter where they live - True / False - What are your thoughts?

2. The basis of contemporary international human rights law is the __________

3. Within the international system, the main body tasked with protecting human rights is _________

4. What are some of the limitations of the concept of human rights?

5. Some critics argue that the concept of human rights has become little more than a buzzword with no concrete impact. What are the main limitations of human rights today, and what do you think could and should be done to strengthen the international protection of basic rights and freedoms?

6. Explain the role, content and impact of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

7. Explain in a nutshell the concept of human rights—provide your own definition and offer a few examples of basic human rights.