The nexus between human security and human rights

Abstract

The expansion and deepening of security have initiated the emergence of new concepts, which, among other things, have enabled new ways of understanding and interpreting threats and risks in the security sphere. Human security is one of the new concepts that are becoming part of the security strategies of many countries, despite still-present dilemmas, especially over its practical significance and usability. This paper explores the interrelationship between human security and human rights, starting from the reference object towards which both are directed; that is, the individual. On the one hand, it explores the placement and meaning of human rights in the concept of human security, also enabling its greater concretization; on the other, it analyses the meaning and impact this concept has and should have in promoting and protecting human rights. Hence, the main thesis is that the human security concept has a greater chance of being more widely accepted and more effective when based on human rights, and that human rights are more likely to be protected and respected if treated as part of human security.