What does the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights primarily protect?

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) is a key international treaty that focuses on protecting a range of civil and political rights. Its primary aim is to ensure that individuals have fundamental freedoms, such as the right to a fair trial and the right to freedom of speech. These rights are essential for the functioning of democratic societies and for the protection of human dignity.

The Covenant outlines various rights, including the right to life, the right to be free from torture, the right to privacy, and the right to participate in public affairs. Among these, the right to a fair trial ensures that legal proceedings are conducted justly and transparently, and the freedom of speech allows individuals to express their opinions and ideas without fear of censorship or retaliation.

Considering the other choices, the ICCPR does not primarily focus on economic rights, which are covered under different frameworks like the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Similarly, cultural rights, while acknowledged, are also not the main focus of the ICCPR. Lastly, while the rights of disabled persons are important and can intersect with civil and political rights, these specific protections are outlined more comprehensively in other instruments, such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Therefore, the