Research Handbook on Accountability for Human Rights Violations

Despite the expansion of the human rights paradigm, not only in terms of the variety of rights recognized – both general rights and those for particular groups – but also in terms of available supervisory mechanisms and remedies, multiple challenges can still be identified for the realization of the effective enjoyment of fundamental rights.

This thought-provoking Research Handbook explores accountability for human rights violations in terms of international law from a rich spectrum of angles. A conceptual angle, investigating the broader understanding of ‘accountability’, is followed by explorations of the who (can be held accountable), for (the violation of) what (rights), how (following what supervisory mechanisms) and to what extent (leading to what remedies). These angles translate into the five main parts of the Research Handbook and are complemented by a sixth part with contemporary case studies whereby, in each case study, the focus will be placed on a particular accountability challenge.

Kristin Henrard and Michelle Duin bring together contributions from a wide variety of authors, including both established experts and emerging scholars in the fields of public international law and international human rights law.

The Research Handbook on Accountability for Human Rights Violations is a vital resource for students and academics in law and public policy. Its valuable insights into human rights violations will also greatly benefit human rights policymakers and practitioners in international and humanitarian law.

Edited by Kristin Henrard, Professor, Brussels School of Governance and Michelle Duin, Legal Officer, Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs