This course deals with conceptual and practical issues underlying the interface between human rights and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) also referred to as the Law of the Sea.
Objectives
The course seeks to:
- assess the role of the state relating to human rights of the individuals;
- explain the concepts, principles, scope and characteristics of human rights;
- identify the various instruments, treaties, and covenants governing human rights; and
- evaluate the mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing human rights.
Content
The course is divided into two parts. The first part introduces the concept, scope and content as well as the characteristics of human rights within the context of the international law of the sea. Also covered are the rules governing the maritime zones and the use of the ocean as stipulated by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. It will further explore the applicability of the Law of the Sea from the viewpoint of international human rights law. The second part considers the ongoing tension between freedom of the sea and sovereign rights and regulation, in contexts of the continuing exploitation and management of marine resources and preservation of the ocean environment. The focus here is on fishing and human rights policy debate over reforms in the sustainable use of ocean resources. The course will also explore the dynamics of human rights abuses and violations within the fisheries.
Mode of Delivery
Lectures (both online and face-to-face), presentations, seminars, field work and case studies.