The core international human rights declarations and treaties have long established basic parameters for rule of law. Their provisions collectively define a state and society where rule of law is a reality in general and where the aspiration is always that it will be universal. Most of these agreements are rooted in the Great Wars of the 20th Century and mankind’s desire to avoid their repetition. No state can claim to have realized all the protections embodied in these legal documents. Vigilance, ambition, and devotion are required by all parties dedicated to their pursuit. These notably include:
- The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
- International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
- International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
