What is a non-derogable right recognized in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)?

The right to life is considered a non-derogable right under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). This means that it cannot be suspended or limited, even in times of emergency, when a state might otherwise be inclined to restrict certain rights for reasons of public safety or national security. The protection of the right to life is foundational to the survival and dignity of individuals and is universally acknowledged as a fundamental human right.

In contrast, the other rights listed—right to privacy, right to freedom of speech, and right to a fair trial—while also important, are not classified as non-derogable rights. They can be subject to limitations under certain circumstances, provided that such limitations are lawful, necessary, and proportionate. The ICCPR recognizes that, in certain situations, states may temporarily restrict the exercise of these rights, especially during national emergencies, which highlights the distinction that the right to life holds in the context of universal human rights protections. Therefore, identifying the right to life as a non-derogable right underscores its paramount importance in international human rights law.