Back to basics? - the scope of legal education in a human rights context

Abstract

In the 21st century, the need for protection and promotion of human rights appears as pertinent as ever. Education has an important role to play in developing a global human rights culture; in this article it will be argued that legal education must evolve to embrace a rights-focused approach. Two inter-related elements underpin this discussion -the rights to education and human rights education, and the identity of those responsible for realising those rights. Initially, the international guidelines for education and human rights education will be overviewed. Evidence will suggest the duty to provide appropriate human rights education extends beyond the State to universities. Thereafter some preliminary observations will be presented on models fulfilling this requirement, taking into account restrictions imposed by the professional bodies. England will be employed as the primary case study with appropriate references to other jurisdictions.