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  3. Human Rights in Asia and the Middle East

Human Rights in Asia and the Middle East (ASIA20007)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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This subject examines human rights issues in Asia and the Middle East. The impact of Confucianism, Buddhism, Islam and other traditions on the shaping of human rights discourse in various Asian and Middle Eastern contexts will be assessed. So, too, will the impact of legal, institutional and politico-economic factors.

Students will be encouraged to investigate case studies drawn from a variety of country contexts focused on pro-democracy movements, activism against political repression, religious and ethnic discrimination, advocacy for social and civil rights, and resistance to patriarchal systems. The diverse ideas put forward by Asian and Middle Eastern human rights thinkers will be evaluated as part of an ongoing debate about the dynamic and contested nature of human rights discourse in the modern world.

Intended learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this subject should be able to:

  • Describe and analyse the strengths and weaknesses of international and regional human rights legal and policy frameworks
  • Engage in debates concerning major human-rights related issues facing Asian and Middle Eastern populations in the contemporary era
  • Explain and adopt critical perspectives in the interpretation of human rights
  • Make recommendations concerning strategies for addressing human rights abuses in Asia and the Middle East
  • Use oral and written communication skills and time management and organisational skills with regard to the timely completion of assessment items
  • Work collaboratively in groups and use initiative in developing research frameworks.

Generic skills

Students who successfully complete this subject should be able to:

  • Think critically and demonstrate analytical skills
  • Communicate effectively through writing and oral discussion
  • Contextualise their work in a range of social, ethical and cultural situations
  • Work collaboratively in groups
  • Successfully develop, manage and complete research projects.

Last updated: 11 December 2024