What is the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights?
The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) is a treaty that was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1966 in New York. Its purpose is to protect human rights related to economic, social, and cultural issues. It guarantees the right to work, the right to join trade unions, the right to receive just and favorable working conditions, the right to social security, and the right to a standard of living adequate for health and wellbeing of oneself and one’s family. In addition, it recognizes the right to medical care, the right to education, and the right to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress. In New York, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is recognized as binding law. New York is also a party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which protects the rights of individuals from being denied their civil and political rights. The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is an important part of international human rights law, and it is a powerful tool for individuals and groups to demand social and economic justice in the face of institutionalized discrimination. In New York, organizations such as the New York Civil Liberties Union have used the ICESCR to push for change in issues such as affordable housing, living wages, and access to education.
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