Democracy and Human Rights in European Context

About the course

The course focuses on the rule of law, democracy, and the international protection of human rights. Themes and topics discussed include:

European institutions

The legal requirements for membership of the Council of Europe and the European Union.

Human rights in the context of the Council of Europe and the European Union

The course provides knowledge on the relevant human rights provisions of the European regional organisations including both civil and political rights and economic, social and cultural rights. The rights of so-called vulnerable groups and minorities are specifically addressed.

Human rights protection in European countries

This theme addresses both legal and political frameworks and issues such as the role of democratic institutions.

Theoretical perspectives on rights and democracy

Developments in legal and political theory on democracy, rights and the rule of law are explored.

Instruction

The teaching consists of lectures and seminars, the majority being in the form of seminars. All seminars are compulsory. The seminars are to be prepared in advance in study groups. Active participation is expected at seminars and in the study groups. Furthermore, you are required to write an essay on a given topic.

Assessment

To pass the course you must have participated in all the obligatory parts. You are required to prepare for and actively participate in all seminars. Your grade for the course will be based on a written essay and the written exam at the end of the course. To pass the course you must have participated in all the obligatory parts.