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International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

international agreement
Also known as: ICESCR

Quick Summary

The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) is a treaty that elaborates on economic, social, and cultural rights outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Opened for signature in 1966 and effective in 1976, it is part of the International Bill of Human Rights.1

Key rights include the right to work, to form trade unions, to health, and to education. Unlike its companion treaty, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the ICESCR was not intended for immediate implementation. States parties agreed to progressively achieve these rights using their available resources.1

A crucial obligation is the immediate prohibition of discrimination based on race, color, sex, language, religion, political opinion, national origin, property, or other status. States parties report to the UN Economic and Social Council on their progress in realizing these rights. An Optional Protocol adopted in 2008 created a mechanism for individual complaints to the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.1

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