Epilogue

Abstract

GIVEN THAT THE FOUNDATIONAL DOCUMENT WITHIN THE international human rights system is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it is ironic and troubling that one persistent challenge to global human rights protection has been and continues to be the claim that rights are not universal. Repeatedly, many governments claim that rights are a Western construct alien to their societies and cultures. They of course often do so in the same breath as justifying failure to live up to any number of essential human rights obligations enshrined in international instruments. Osire Glacier has taken us back in history and examined one such claim of human rights not being universal by looking at the fascinating history that led to the drafting and adoption of the UN Convention against Torture and Other Forms of Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The result is a strong endorsement of the universal nature of that important treaty and thus of the universal standing of the fundamental and unconditional ban on torture—everywhere.