ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the emergence of rights-based approaches to development. It explores the aims, implications, and value of adopting the approach. The rationale of a rights-based approach is that human rights and development are interconnected and that it "adds value" to this relationship. The chapter also examines the policies and practices of development agencies that define their work according to the principles of a rights-based approach. These principles are universality, indivisibility, accountability, participation, empowerment, and non-discrimination. Interpretations of a rights-based approach have evolved conceptually before being operationally developed. United Nations agencies, donors, and non-governmental organizations operating at the international and local levels are involved in a process of operationalization. Most rights-based organizations stress the need for intersectoral strategies and approaches and the need to establish synergies among different program types. According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Rights-based approaches give preference to strategies for empowerment over charitable responses.
