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'Civil liberties and human rights have been eroded in recent years' - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 4
'Civil liberties and human rights have been eroded in recent years'. Discuss.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'Civil liberties and human rights have been eroded in recent years' - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Discuss the erosion of civil liberties and human rights
Answer
Since 2000, various governments have implemented measures that have curtailed civil liberties and human rights. Key points to consider include:
- The argument that heightened threats from terrorism necessitate restrictions to maintain public safety.
- Limitations on the right to a trial by jury in specific cases.
- Increased restrictions on the right to protest, as well as enhanced surveillance measures, which impact personal privacy.
- Changes to the Freedom of Information Act have narrowed the public's access to information.
- A notable restriction on legal aid, which has limited access to justice for many individuals.
- Some political figures have demonstrated hostility towards the European Court of Human Rights, undermining the legal framework designed to protect rights.
These points illustrate how various policies and actions by the government have led to a perceived decline in civil liberties and human rights.
Step 2
Examine counterarguments against the erosion of civil liberties
Answer
Conversely, some argue that civil liberties and human rights have not been significantly eroded. Key counterarguments include:
- The establishment of the Human Rights Act (HRA) has provided mechanisms for safeguarding civil liberties, allowing individuals to seek legal recourse.
- Increased transparency through social media and advocacy groups like Liberty has fostered a more vigilant public, enhancing the support for civil liberties.
- Ongoing discussions in Parliament about the protection of citizen rights indicate a legislative commitment to these issues.
- High-profile court cases underline the judiciary's role in protecting rights, suggesting that the judicial system is active in maintaining civil liberties against government overreach.
These points suggest a nuanced understanding that, while there are measures curtailing civil liberties, there are also frameworks and public discourses that support their preservation.