Guide
Theme 1: Foundational Principles & Theories
1. What is the primary distinction between a 'state obligation to respect' and a 'state
obligation to fulfill' human rights?
• A) Respect is passive; fulfill is active.
• B) Respect requires resources; fulfill requires legislation.
• C) They are synonymous terms.
• D) Respect applies only to civil rights; fulfill to socio-economic rights.
Answer: A - The obligation to respect requires the state to refrain from interfering
with rights (passive), while the obligation to fulfill requires positive action to facilitate
the enjoyment of rights (active).
2. The principle of "progressive realization" is most directly associated with which
category of human rights?
• A) Civil and Political Rights
• B) First-Generation Rights
• C) Socio-Economic and Cultural Rights
• D) Collective Solidarity Rights
Answer: C - It acknowledges that full realization of rights like health and education
may be achieved over time and is subject to available resources.
3. Which legal maxim, meaning "the thing speaks for itself," is often used in cases of
prima facie evidence of negligence?
• A) Actus Reus
• B) Res Ipsa Loquitur
• C) Stare Decisis
, • D) Mens Rea
Answer: B - It applies when the facts of the case are so obvious that negligence can
be inferred.
4. The doctrine of Stare Decisis ensures what in a common law system?
• A) All laws are written in statute.
• B) Legal consistency and predictability through precedent.
• C) The legislature has supreme power.
• D) Judges can create new laws arbitrarily.
Answer: B - It is the principle of following established judicial precedents.
5. In international law, what does Jus Cogens refer to?
• A) Bilateral treaties between states
• B) A peremptory norm from which no derogation is permitted
• C) The legal personality of individuals
• D) Diplomatic protocols
Answer: B - These are fundamental principles of international law, like the
prohibition of genocide and torture.
Theme 2: International Human Rights Law
6. Which UN body is primarily responsible for monitoring the implementation of the
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)?
• A) The UN Security Council
• B) The International Court of Justice (ICJ)
• C) The Human Rights Council (HRC)
• D) The Human Rights Committee (HRCtee)
Answer: D - The Human Rights Committee monitors the ICCPR, while the Human
Rights Council is a broader political body.
7. What is the legal status of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in
international law?