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.
Philip Alston
UN expert on extreme poverty and human rights
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Justine Lacroix
Political scientist and Professor of political theory at ULB
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Brightman Gebremichael Ganta
Former Head of Department at the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission
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Xinyan Yu
Co-director of Made in Ethiopia
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The discussion is interpreted in English and French
Made in Ethiopia
When a vast Chinese industrial park sets up in a rural part of Ethiopia, an agricultural community suddenly finds itself on the cusp of a new global era. Motto, the formidable Chinese director of this colossal enterprise, must push for a high-stakes expansion that promises 30,000 new jobs. Meanwhile, Ethiopian farmer Workinesh and factory worker Beti have placed their futures in the hands of this development. As they collide with difficult realities, they – like their country – reach a critical juncture where their belief in industrialisation is put under extreme pressure.
Max Duncan
Gobez Media
Jeppe Bødskov
Siyi Chen
