Submission to CESCR on the list of Issues for the UK
The UK is currently undergoing the 7th periodic review of its compliance with the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) – a process likely to continue into 2024.
CAJ has provided a written submission to the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) as it develops the ‘list of issues’ (LoI) for consideration during the review. Our response provides commentary on UK commitments made within the NI peace agreements that engage Covenant rights.
Specifically, the submission covers:
· A Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland (Art. 1, 2)
· An Anti-Poverty Strategy on basis of Objective Need (Art. 3, 6, 9, 11, 12)
· Irish Language Legislation (Art. 1, 2)
· Paramilitary Intimidation from Housing (Art. 11)
Download it here.
What is the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights?
ICESCR is an international human rights treaty, which was first adopted in 1966 and later ratified by the UK in 1976. The Covenant enshrines economic, social, and cultural rights, such as the rights to adequate food, adequate housing, education, health, social security, water and sanitation, and work. The Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR), a body of 18 independent experts, monitors implementation of ICESCR by state parties (including the UK).