Rights-based approach in the work of Save the Children UK

Abstract

As human rights and development share the same goal of achieving human liberty and dignity, the human rights-based approach to development has come to life using international human rights standards and frameworks to reinforce the legal obligations states have to create changes towards the fulfilment of human rights and fundamental freedoms. This study aims at diving into the massive theoretical work on human rights-based approaches to form a deep, logical understanding of this concept based on literature review. At the same time, the researcher also aspired to compare and cross-check the results drawn from the previous studies and publications with an empirical study of Save the Children UK whose work has been claimed to be rights-based and rights-oriented. With the time-tested history in fighting for children’s rights, Save the Children is believed to be one of the prestigious organisations with the richest experience in being the pioneer and leader in integrating, employing and practising rights-based approach. Save the Children UK has a long history of advocating for, promoting and protecting children rights. The organisation is evolving to reach a wider range of beneficiaries and achieve better programming results with strong campaigning activities. A rights-based approach is very much in line with the vision and mission of the organisation yet it also poses the weakness in providing visible and time-bound results.