(a) Define Fundamental Human rights. (b) Highlight five means of safeguarding Fundamental Human Rights it State.

Answer Details

(a) Definition of Fundamental Human Rights

Fundamental Human Rights are the basic rights and freedoms which every human being is entitled to enjoy by virtue of being a person, and which are recognised, guaranteed and protected by the constitution of a state. They are inalienable rights considered so essential to human dignity and existence that they cannot lawfully be taken away, and they include the right to life, personal liberty, fair hearing, freedom of expression, freedom of movement and freedom from discrimination.

(b) Five means of safeguarding Fundamental Human Rights in a state

1. Entrenchment in the constitution: Writing the rights into a rigid, supreme constitution makes them difficult to alter and gives them the highest legal protection.
2. An independent judiciary: Impartial and independent courts interpret and enforce these rights and provide redress to citizens whose rights are violated.
3. The rule of law: Ensuring that everyone, including government, is subject to the law and that no one is punished except according to law protects citizens against arbitrary treatment.
4. A free press and free mass media: A vibrant press exposes abuses of rights and creates public awareness, thereby serving as a watchdog against violations.
5. Separation of powers: Dividing power among the executive, legislature and judiciary so that each checks the others prevents the concentration and abuse of power that endangers rights.

Other safeguards include the activities of human rights organisations and pressure groups, and the provision of legal aid so that the poor can defend their rights.