Introduction to the Protection of Human Rights in the Council of Europe

The aim of the course is to provide a solid foundation for the forthcoming subjects covering ECHR-jurisprudence. Thus, this introductory course focuses on the human rights instruments and mechanisms of the Council of Europe; a special attention is devoted to the European Convention on Human Rights. Classes and readings will cover among others the procedures under the European Convention (individual and inter-state complaint procedures, advisory jurisdiction, and implementation of the judgments), the scope of the rights covered, and the principles and methods of interpretation. Through the case-studies students will also gain an insight in the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights. In addition, part of the course will explore the activities, competencies and operation of the various other bodies of the Council of Europe.