ICCPR - International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 16 December 1966. The covenant entered into force on 23 March 1976. Belgium ratified the ICCPR on 21 April 1983.

The ICCPR focuses on issues such as the right to life, freedom of expression, religious freedom, the right to vote, the prohibition of torture, etc. The Human Rights Committee monitors compliance with the ICCPR. In principle, the treaty is directly applicable in the courts of the states that have signed it.

The States that are parties to the ICCPR are assessed in an evaluation cycle:

1. State report + alternative reports from civil society
   Member States that are parties to the ICCPR must submit a report to the Human Rights Committee every four years. This report must explain what measures the state is taking to fulfil its obligations under the ICCPR and what progress has been made with regard to the enjoyment of rights. In addition, civil society may submit alternative reports.
2. Concluding observations of the Human Rights Committee
   On the basis of these reports, the Human Rights Committee makes its concluding observations. It may also send these observations to the UN Economic and Social Committee.

Further information: UN Treaty Body Database