International human rights law lays

down obligations which States are bound to respect. By becoming parties to

international treaties, States assume obligations and duties under

international law to respect, to protect and to fulfil human rights. The

obligation to respect means that States must refrain from interfering with or

curtailing the enjoyment of human rights. The obligation to protect requires States

to protect individuals and groups against human rights abuses. The obligation

to fulfil means that States must take positive action to facilitate the

enjoyment of basic human rights.