A Legal Analysis of the Domestic Enforceability of International Human Rights Law: The Rule of Law Imperative

This theoretical article presents the argument that the domestic implementation of international human rights norms depends on the rule of law governing in the state. To effectively enforce international human rights conventions, the goal of the international community should be to ensure that the rule of law is respected and an independent and effective judiciary exists within specific countries. The example of Cameroon is used to illustrate the argument. Human rights violations in Cameroon have been triggered by the breakdown of the rule of law and the absence of an independent judiciary to sanction government officials who perpetuate these violations. [This article does not specifically address women's rights.]