Fundamental Human Rights SS1 Government Lesson Note

Human rights can be defined as those privileges enjoyed by the citizens of a given state. These privileges are usually defined and enjoyed within the bounds of the law i.e. the law of the country. In the written constitutions, these rights are specified, the limit to such rights and the protection accorded them by the government. It is the responsibility of the state to ensure that its citizens enjoy these rights. 

Such rights include:

1. Right to life, security, and protection from inhuman treatment.
2. Freedom from slavery.
3. Freedom from unlawful detention and imprisonment.
4. Freedom of movement.
5. Freedom of association.
6. Freedom of expression and the press.
7. Right to ownership of property. 
8. Right to education.
9. The right to a fair hearing.
10. Right to vote and be voted for.

 REASONS WHY IT IS INCLUDED IN THE CONSTITUTION

1. It makes for easy reference since constitutions are documented, it can easily be referred to.
2. The inclusion of fundamental human rights in the constitution prevents dictatorship.
3. It ensures the constitutional protection of citizen’s rights.
4. To enable citizens to seek redress whenever their rights are infringed upon.
5. The inclusion of fundamental human rights in the constitution prevents the government from effecting change in them.
6. It is also included in the constitution to comply with U.N.O’s directive.

ASSIGNMENT

1. Fundamental human rights means 

(a) freedom of exploitation (b) the privileges enjoyed by a citizen (c) dictatorship (d) the right to kill

2. The rights of the citizens are necessary because of the following except 

(a) to enable citizens to seek redress (b) to prevent break down of law and order (c) to ensure peaceful co-existence in the state (d) to cause conflict

3. The following are the rights of citizens except 

(a) Right to life (b) freedom of association (c) freedom to commit crime (d) freedom of expression

4. The rights of the people can be curtailed by the government when there is 

(a) violent demonstration (b) peace in the society (c) development (d) absence of conflict

5. The right of the citizens to vote and be voted for in an election is called 

(a) nomination (b) franchise (c) indirect election (d) voting