ABSTRACT
Manifestly, improved education, publicity and modes of transport have contributed to a better understanding of human rights violations. New techniques of journalism and news gathering have enabled one part of the world to learn almost simultaneously of violations committed many thousands of miles away. In consequence, a wider range of institutions now exist to promote, protect and restrain abuses of human rights. While generalisations should normally be qualified, the evidence does seem to indicate that human rights (at least civil and political rights) are best protected by those states possessed of an openly elected democratic government operating under a written constitution and within the rule of law.
