Compendium of International Legal Instruments and Other Inter-governmental Commitments Concerning Core Civil Society Rights
The practical realisation of core civil society freedoms to express, associate and assemble, which are contained in a vast body of international law and inter-governmental commitments, is critical to civic existence and effective citizen participation. Nevertheless, in various contexts around the world, civil society faces new and increasing infringements on fundamental rights and the exercise of basic civil liberties and political freedoms. This compendium collates and consolidates various commitments made by national governments - both regionally and at the UN- to assure necessary space to civil society to carry out its activities. It is intended to be a reference point for civil society organisations and human rights defenders in their efforts to realise such rights commitments and guard against infringements.
