What is the International Convention on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR)?

The International Convention on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) is an international treaty adopted in Washington in 1966. It is part of the International Bill of Rights and is monitored by the United Nations (UN). The treaty has legally binding power, meaning signatory nations are legally obligated to protect and promote the rights outlined therein. The ICESCR is a declaration of rights and includes such protections as the right to work and receive a just remuneration, the right to education, the right to an adequate standard of living, the right to social security and the right to participate in cultural life. It also outlines specific rights for women, children, and indigenous peoples. The treaty binds governments of all signatory nations to promote these rights and to take all necessary measures “to the maximum of its available resources” to realize these rights. It also obliges signatory countries to report regularly on their progress in fulfilling the treaty’s obligations. In addition, the treaty provides for a range of remedies for those whose rights have been violated, including the possibility of individual complaints against governments and the potential for further investigation by the UN. In sum, the International Convention on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is an important treaty that binds governments to ensure basic human rights related to economic, social and cultural issues. It is part of an international effort to create a more just and equitable world.

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What is the International Convention on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR)?

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