On 16 December 1966, the United Nations adopted the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. This book provides an analysis of many of the key issues, both in concept and in application, relevant to economic, social and cultural rights. It examines how the obligations to protect these rights have been applied.

The protection of economic, social, and cultural rights, such as a safe working environment, access to health care and education, and the ability to maintain culture, is vital for everyone, no matter where they live. This book sets out some of the important legal issues about these rights, including who has obligations, when they apply, and how they are relevant to contemporary concerns, such as trade and democracy.