European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR)

The European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) is a treaty ensuring human rights and fundamental freedoms in Europe. It was drafted in 1950 and came into force in 1953. Recent news highlights growing pressure to revise or reinterpret the ECHR, particularly concerning asylum and border control. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has urged European leaders to modernize the ECHR to allow for tougher border measures, aiming to counter the rise of right-wing populism. This push has sparked controversy, with concerns raised about potential weakening of migrant protections and human rights safeguards, including those related to torture. Celebrities and human rights advocates are urging the UK government to uphold the ECHR's principles. The ECHR's relevance lies in its role as a cornerstone of human rights protection in Europe, now facing challenges due to political pressures surrounding immigration and security.