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International Human Rights in Post-Colonial Africa

Universality in Perspective

An interdisciplinary and accessible argument for international human rights standards in post-colonial Africa.

International Human Rights in Post-Colonial Africa: Universality in Perspective advances three interrelated claims for international human rights standards in post-colonial Africa. The sweeping changes that have taken place in post-colonial Africa since colonial eras necessitate that we change our assumptions about the structural and socio-politico-economic systems of post-colonial Africa and their impact on individual and group rights. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, this study is rooted in law and draws on philosophy, political science, anthropology, sociology, economics, and more. It advances legal and moral justifications for the universality of human rights standards, despite global cultural diversity. Aiming to weave a case for human rights as universal imperatives, this accessibly written book offers a range of definitions for readers not familiar with the language used in this particular field of study. Complex terms or terms of art have been defined to make it easier for readers to understand and follow the arguments. 

288 pages | 1 graph | 5.43 x 8.5 | © 2024

International Law

African Studies

Law and Legal Studies: International Law, Law and Society


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Table of Contents

Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgements
List of Illustrations/Figures
List of Abbreviations
Chapter One: Universalism Versus Cultural Relativism in the African Debate on IHRs
Chapter Two: Between Universalism and Cultural Relativism: Unpacking the Key Concepts
Chapter Three: Application of the Modified Modernisation Theory to Explain the Relevance of Human Rights to Africa
Chapter Four: IHRs as Sui Generis Moral and Legal Rights: A Justification for Universality
Chapter Five: Conclusion
The Universalism versus Relativism Debate: Strengths and Limitations
Practical and Theoretical Justifications for Universality of Human Rights Standards
Bibliography

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