Regional Human Rights Protection: The Inter-American System

This course provides an in-depth introduction and overview of the doctrine and practice of the Inter-American Human Rights System (“IAHRS”). Students will examine the instruments that protect human rights in the IAHRS, the jurisprudence of the system, and the practice of the Inter-American Commission and Court of Human Rights.  The course will also examine the engagement, obstacles and opportunities the system provides for civil society groups, victims, and advocates. Class sessions will consider not only the norms of the system, but also its internal dynamics.  In addition, we will consider the impact of the system, evaluating implementation of decisions, as well as the general relevance of the IAHRS to human rights debates, legislation, and practice at the national level in countries throughout the hemisphere.