Abstract:
The protection and implementation of Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ESCR) under
national constitutions, in compliance with the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and
Cultural Rights (ICESCR), form a critical foundation for the realization of human dignity and
sustainable development. This research investigates the ways in which countries can align their
constitutional frameworks with the obligations set out in the ICESCR, focusing on the legal
mechanisms necessary for the effective protection and realization of these rights. The ICESCR,
adopted by the United Nations, obligates state parties to ensure the rights to work, education,
health, adequate living standards, and social security, among others. This monograph examines
the challenges and opportunities associated with incorporating these rights into national legal
systems, the principle of progressive realization, and the role of national institutions, including
courts and human rights bodies, in enforcing these rights.
The study delves into the intersection between international law and domestic constitutions,
emphasizing the need for robust legal frameworks, state accountability, and resource allocation to
achieve compliance with ICESCR provisions. It discusses the importance of judicial enforcement,
public awareness, and the role of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) in advancing ESCR,
along with mechanisms for international cooperation. Through a case study of Bangladesh, the
research further explores the practical application of these principles within the context of a
developing nation, considering the specific challenges faced in the progressive realization of
ESCR, such as budgetary constraints, gender equality, and access to basic services.
Ultimately, the research highlights the importance of integrating ESCR into constitutional and
legal frameworks, advocating for the strengthening of accountability mechanisms, and ensuring
effective state and institutional action in line with international human rights standards. The
findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, legal scholars, and human rights advocates
working towards the realization of ESCR globally.
