Editorial foreword [Mediterranean Journal of Human Rights, 4]

Abstract

The publication of this double issue of the Mediterranean Journal of Human Rights illustrates the versatility of Human Rights and the extent to which they have become the dominant global ideology of our times. In the twenty-first century, Human Rights law is more than a quirkily idealistic chapter in International Law textbooks, or a source of vague and emotive political slogans. It has become the framework within which various international relations are conducted, a sine qua non for economic aid and the primary justification for resort to military force. In the process, Human Rights have long broken out of the specific confines of international law to invade other domains. They have penetrated popular consciousness in countries around the world, as well as creating a common discursive terrain where legal and non-legal expertise unite in the challenging task of constructing, defining and protecting the human subject. [excerpt]