What impact does state sovereignty have on the protection of human rights? - HSC - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 21 - 2012 - Paper 1

State sovereignty plays a crucial role in the protection of human rights as it establishes the framework within which a state operates. Sovereign states have the authority to create laws and policies that govern their internal affairs, which includes the protection of human rights. However, this autonomy can also lead to situations where states prioritize sovereignty over human rights obligations.

For instance, governments may invoke state sovereignty to resist external pressures to improve human rights conditions. This can result in a lack of accountability, as states may feel they are shielded from international scrutiny. Conversely, when states recognize their responsibility to protect human rights, state sovereignty can empower them to implement effective mechanisms for safeguarding these rights. This duality indicates that while state sovereignty can bolster efforts to uphold human rights, it can also impede progress when governments choose to prioritize sovereignty over compliance with international human rights standards.