"As we enter the 7th year of the economic crisis, the end is not yet in sight. Worse, in most countries, the adoption of austerity measures has so far contributed little to recovery, but has exacerbated the dire living conditions of millions of people. Not surprisingly, disillusioned Europeans are increasingly giving their support to populist movements and parties, which poses a serious threat to the stability of our societies", says Nils Muižnieks, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, in his latest Human Rights Comment published today.
Yet, this situation is far from inevitable. If Government leaders and money lenders started considering socio-economic rights not as a luxury, but as an integral part of recovery plans, they would increase the chances of reversing course, averting future shocks and boosting economic development. Growing evidence suggests that economic development is more sustainable and societies are more resilient when social rights are protected. (more...)