ABSTRACT
Civil rights are the basic rights that are accorded to individuals which prevent unequal treatment based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or one’s disability. States have to maintain a delicate balance between protecting national security and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights and freedoms. In some instances, the protection of national security may require limiting privacy rights and civil liberties. This chapter explores this concern in three ways. First, it explains the highly used terms of civil rights and civil liberties. Second, the chapter discusses the main role of the Department of Homeland Security in protecting the USA from disasters and terrorism. In this regard, it discusses the USA PATRIOT Act and some alleged cases of terrorism. Third, the chapter assesses the dual role of the Office of Civil Rights and Liberties in the promotion of such rights and freedoms and in the provision of redress where instances of violation have occurred.
