The European Convention on Human Rights
An interactive exploration of the cornerstone of human rights protection in Europe. Discover its history, the fundamental rights it protects, the court that enforces them, and the challenges it faces today.
A Journey Through Time
The ECHR was not created in a vacuum. It was a direct response to historical events and has evolved significantly over the decades. Click on key dates below to learn more about its development.
The Rights Explorer
The Convention guarantees a range of civil and political rights. Some are "absolute" and cannot be limited, while others are "qualified" and can be restricted under specific conditions. Use the filters to explore them.
Core Convention Articles
Key Rights from Protocols
The Court in Action
The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in Strasbourg is the engine of the Convention. It provides a path to justice for individuals and ensures states uphold their commitments. This flowchart shows the journey of a case from application to enforcement.
Most Frequent Violations Found by the Court
While the Court deals with all rights, some articles are cited in violations more frequently than others. This chart reflects the key areas of concern identified in the Court's case-law.
Landmark Cases
The ECHR is a "living instrument," meaning its interpretation evolves. Landmark judgments by the ECtHR have profoundly shaped laws and societies across Europe. Explore key cases by theme.
Contemporary Challenges
The ECHR system is not without its critics and faces significant pressures in the 21st century. Explore the key debates and future trajectories facing the Convention.