Human Rights Under Pressure - 75 Years of Convention - ECHR's 75th Anniversary Clouded by Criticism and Resistance
The European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, but it's facing unprecedented criticism and resistance from several European countries. The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), which interprets the Convention, is under fire for its rulings, particularly in migration cases.
In May, a group of European leaders, including those from Poland and Hungary, publicly condemned the ECtHR. They argue that the court's interpretations excessively restrict national sovereignty and hinder effective migration control. However, migration law and human rights expert Dana Schmalz urges a more nuanced debate, warning against extreme accusations that lack factual basis.
This criticism has not been without impact. Judgments of the ECtHR, which guarantee fundamental rights like the right to life and freedom of expression, are increasingly being left unenforced. Beate Rudolf, director of the German Institute for Human Rights (DIMR), expresses concern about this development, stating it's 'alarming in a constitutional state'. Schmalz echoes this concern, noting that the 'quiet defiance of rulings' undermines the Convention and weakens the Court's authority. Despite these challenges, the ECHR remains in force since 1953, binding all 46 member states of the Council of Europe.
As the ECHR marks its 75th anniversary, it finds itself under mounting pressure from several European countries. While the ECtHR faces criticism for its rulings, experts warn against undermining the Convention and the Court's authority. The future of the ECHR and the ECtHR depends on balanced dialogue and respect for the fundamental rights they protect.
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