Civil liberties

Civil liberties are protections from the power of governments. Examples include the right to life, the right to privacy, the right to a fair trial, freedom of speech and freedom of assembly. These are usually guaranteed and protected by a constitution or by adherence to an international treaty. In many places there are disputes over certain liberties, regarding the question of whether they can be considered civil liberties at all, and, if so, whether they should be protected. Examples include reproductive rights, the right of gay marriage, and the right of narcotic possession.

European countries

The European Convention on Human Rights, to which most European countries, including all of the European Union, belong, lists forth a number of civil liberties.

Related Topics:
European Convention on Human Rights - European Union

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France's 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, listing many civil liberties, is of constitutional force.

Related Topics:
France - 1789 - Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen

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