What is the Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights?

The Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is an international human rights instrument created to improve the enjoyment of the rights contained in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). This Optional Protocol was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008 and entered into force in 2013. It provides for individuals and groups to submit complaints to the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights about violations of their rights under the ICESCR. In Florida, individuals and groups are able to submit these complaints to the UN if they feel their rights under the ICESCR have been violated. They must exhaust all available remedies at national level first and provide evidence of this. The Optional Protocol also provides for the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights to make inquiries to governments if it believes the government is in violation of the ICESCR. The Optional Protocol is an important tool for the realization of economic, social and cultural rights in Florida and around the world. It helps to hold governments accountable for their human rights obligations and encourages greater respect and protection of these rights.

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