Do Human Rights Travel?
The post-war structure of human rights instruments is the basis for much of the West's rhetoric, policy, and world view. Its universality is axiomatic. But is it as universal as we think? Many in the world, and some in the West, think of it as culturally specific; some see it alien to non-Judaeo-Christian cultures. Is it? Is cultural relavitism a cloak for human rights abuse or a statement of obvious principle? How do we navigate this minefield and how can we best uphold human rights in a world of negotiated cultures?