ABSTRACT
The status of individuals under international law is no longer in doubt: individ uals are subjects of international law and as such are accorded rights. Yet rights are illusory without the procedural capability to enforce them. They are no more than high-minded principles if individuals whose rights have been violated have no avenue for complaint and relief. International courts and commissions are often empowered to enforce human rights and to attribute responsibility to States that violate their obligations. These enforcement bodies must employ equitable proce dures that balance victims' rights and States' treaty obligations. The practice and procedures of these bodies can ensure or impede an individual victim's access to justice.
