Fundamental Rights vs. Human Rights: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 30, 2024
Fundamental rights are specific rights granted by a country's constitution to its citizens, while human rights are universal rights inherent to all humans, recognized internationally.
Key Differences
Fundamental Rights are specific rights granted by a country's constitution, protecting citizens against state actions. Human Rights, conversely, are universal rights recognized and accepted worldwide, transcending national boundaries.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
While Fundamental Rights are subject to the laws of a specific country and can vary from one nation to another, Human Rights are considered universal, applying to every individual irrespective of where they live.
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Jan 30, 2024
Fundamental Rights can be altered or amended by the governing body of a country, reflecting the changing needs or beliefs of its society. In contrast, Human Rights are seen as inalienable and constant, not subject to change by individual governments.
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Jan 30, 2024
Enforcement of Fundamental Rights is typically the responsibility of the country's legal system. However, Human Rights are often enforced and protected by international organizations like the United Nations.
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Jan 30, 2024
Fundamental Rights often include rights like freedom of speech, right to equality, and right to privacy. Human Rights encompass broader concepts like the right to life, freedom from torture, and the right to education.
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Jan 30, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Amendment
Can be changed by national governments
Considered inalienable and constant
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Examples
Right to vote, right to privacy
Right to life, freedom from slavery
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Jan 30, 2024
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Fundamental Rights and Human Rights Definitions
Fundamental Rights
Legal protections against state actions.
Citizens rely on their fundamental right to a fair trial.
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Human Rights
Universal rights irrespective of nationality.
Freedom from torture is a fundamental human right globally.
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Fundamental Rights
Rights protected by a country’s constitution.
The right to freedom of speech is a fundamental right in many democracies.
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Human Rights
Rights that transcend national laws.
The human right to seek asylum is protected internationally.
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Fundamental Rights
Constitutionally granted rights to citizens.
The fundamental right to vote is central to democratic systems.
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Human Rights
Rights recognized by international law.
The human right to free speech is upheld by several international treaties.
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Fundamental Rights
Rights specific to a nation’s legal framework.
The right to privacy is a fundamental right in numerous constitutions.
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Human Rights
Basic rights inherent to human dignity.
Access to clean water is increasingly recognized as a human right.
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Fundamental Rights
Basic rights afforded by national laws.
The fundamental right to education ensures access to basic education.
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Human Rights
Inherent rights for all human beings.
Every individual is entitled to human rights, like the right to life.
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Jan 08, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What are Fundamental Rights?
Rights granted by a nation’s constitution to its citizens.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
What are Human Rights?
Universal rights inherent to all individuals, regardless of nationality.
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Jan 30, 2024
Are Human Rights the same everywhere?
Yes, they are considered universal and inalienable.
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Jan 30, 2024
Can Fundamental Rights be amended?
Yes, through constitutional amendments by national governments.
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Jan 30, 2024
Can Fundamental Rights vary by country?
Yes, they are specific to each country’s constitution.
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Jan 30, 2024
Who enforces Fundamental Rights?
The legal system of the respective country.
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Jan 30, 2024
Are Human Rights subject to change?
No, they are seen as constant and inalienable.
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Jan 30, 2024
Do Fundamental Rights apply to foreigners?
They typically apply to citizens and sometimes to residents.
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How do Fundamental Rights affect governance?
They limit state power and protect individual liberties.
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Can Human Rights be suspended?
They should not be, as they are inalienable.
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Role of Human Rights in international relations?
They often guide diplomatic policies and humanitarian efforts.
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Is access to healthcare a Human Right?
It is increasingly recognized as a fundamental human right.
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Impact of violating Fundamental Rights?
Legal consequences within the country.
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Consequences of violating Human Rights?
Potential international legal action and sanctions.
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Can Fundamental Rights be suspended?
In certain situations, like a state of emergency.
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Jan 30, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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