Unit 4: Human rights in legal contexts

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How did the modern human rights framework develop, and what are its key instruments?

the historical development of human rights, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 1948, and the two International Covenants of 1966

A focused QCE Unit 4 answer to the development of modern human rights. Covers the UDHR 1948, the ICCPR and ICESCR 1966, the historic milestones (Magna Carta, US Bill of Rights, French Declaration), and Australia's ratifications.

5 min answer →

How effective is international law in protecting human rights, and why is enforcement so difficult?

the sources, institutions and effectiveness of international law in protecting human rights, including the role of the United Nations

A focused QCE Unit 4 answer to the effectiveness of international law. Covers the sources of international law, the role of the United Nations and its principal organs, the problem of state sovereignty and enforcement, and the strengths and weaknesses of the international system.

6 min answer →

How are human rights protected in Australia, and what does the Human Rights Act 2019 (Qld) add?

the protection of human rights in Australia, including the Human Rights Act 2019 (Qld) and the dialogue model

A focused QCE Unit 4 answer to rights protection in Australia. Covers constitutional protections, common law rights, anti-discrimination statutes, and in detail the Human Rights Act 2019 (Qld) with its 23 listed rights, the dialogue model, and key Queensland cases.

6 min answer →

How does the International Criminal Court prosecute the most serious international crimes?

the operation and effectiveness of the International Criminal Court and the Rome Statute

A focused QCE Unit 4 answer to the International Criminal Court. Covers the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court 1998, the four core crimes, jurisdictional triggers, complementarity, and recent cases including the 2023 arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin and South Africa v Israel at the ICJ.

5 min answer →