Which treaty is considered the cornerstone of human rights law?

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is considered the cornerstone of human rights law.

Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10th December 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a milestone document in the history of human rights. It sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected. The UDHR is not a treaty itself, but it has inspired more than 60 human rights instruments which together constitute an international standard of human rights. These instruments include the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

The UDHR consists of 30 articles which have been elaborated in subsequent international treaties, regional human rights instruments, national constitutions and laws. The Declaration arose directly from the experience of the Second World War and represents the first global expression of rights to which all human beings are inherently entitled. It is a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations, to the end that every individual and every organ of society shall strive to promote respect for these rights and freedoms.

The UDHR, although not legally binding, has been incorporated into or has influenced most national constitutions since 1948. It has also served as the foundation for a growing number of national laws, international laws, and treaties, as well as for national, regional and international institutions protecting and promoting human rights.

The UDHR's significance lies in its universal recognition of the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family. This is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world. The UDHR recognises that the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family are the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world. It is a powerful tool in the fight against oppression, injustice and discrimination.