Monitor ICCPR violations in the context of COVID-19 pandemic

Tools to detect cases and risks of ICCPR violations by measures taken by State parties against COVID-19 pandemic

Amid the unprecedented public health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, various measures have been taken by State and local authorities including those restricting rights and freedoms of individuals. In many cases, such restrictions appear necessary to effectively deal with the virus outbreak and protect the rights to life and health of all.

Still, concerns have been raised over the extent, impact and duration of some of the measures taken to protect public health that might have gone beyond the scope of restrictions and derogations permitted under the ICCPR.

The guidelines and flash cards presented below seek to help all stakeholders effectively monitor and assess the negative impact on the enjoyment of civil and political rights caused by measures taken by States in the context of COVID-19 pandemic.

They provide: an overview and simple explanation of ICCPR articles that permits restrictions in particular circumstances; required procedures and conditions for a legitimate derogation from the ICCPR; and the rights enshrined in the ICCPR, from which no derogation is permitted under any circumstance, even in a state of emergency.

"With this publication, the CCPR Centre targets civil society and Human Rights Defenders worldwide, equipping them with tools to monitor and identify ICCPR violations and recognize misapplication and abuse of powers in the context of Covid-19 emergency. "

- Yuval Shany, former Chair of the UN HR Committee