Sustainable Development and Human Rights: A Study in the Light of the 1966 International Covenant

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relationship between sustainable development and human rights in light of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) of 1966, which serves as a fundamental legal framework for achieving comprehensive and equitable development. The research explores the conceptual and institutional dimensions of both sustainable development and human rights, analyzing the Covenant’s provisions on key rights such as work, education, health, social security, and an adequate standard of living. It also traces the historical evolution of sustainable development from the Brundtland Report (1987) to the United Nations 2030 Agenda. The findings reveal that respecting and protecting economic, social, and cultural rights is essential for realizing sustainable development, whereas the lack of justice, equality, and institutional stability hinders progress. The study recommends integrating international human rights conventions into national legislation in line with societal contexts and promoting public awareness of the vital role of rights in achieving sustainable development.