The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR)

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) is an international court established to protect human rights across its member countries in Europe. When individuals believe their rights—such as freedom of speech, fair trial, or privacy—have been violated by a government, they can bring their case to the ECHR after exhausting domestic legal options. The court reviews these cases to determine if the rights outlined in the European Convention on Human Rights have been breached. Its rulings are binding on member states, promoting accountability and the consistent protection of fundamental rights across Europe.