ECtHR (European Court of Human Rights)

The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) is an international court based in Strasbourg, France, that hears cases related to human rights violations in Europe. Established in 1959, it interprets the European Convention on Human Rights, ensuring that countries uphold citizens' rights such as freedom of speech, privacy, and fair trials. Individuals, groups, and states can bring cases before the court if they believe their rights have been infringed upon by a member state. The court's decisions are binding, helping to promote and protect human rights across Europe.