Strengthening economic, social and cultural rights The rights to water, food, healthcare, education, work, or culture-economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR) aim to ensure dignified living conditions by meeting individuals’ universal needs. Traditionally, states have deemed civil and political rights, such as freedom of expression or religion, to be “immediate” and readily enforceable. In contrast, ESCR are more difficult to quantify and implement. This divide has created an implicit hierarchy of human rights that disadvantages ESCR, even though these rights are central to creating a more equitable society. This is all the more urgent in the face of the climate crisis, growing economic inequalities, and limited resources.