International Law (Private and Human Rights) International Private Law, often referred to as 'Conflict of Laws', is that body of law which deals with disputes which involve the laws of more than one country because some of their constituent elements are connected with more than one such jurisdiction. Those elements might be the events which have given rise to the dispute, the locations which might be involved, or the residential location of the parties. .......................................................... Human Rights Law The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations, to the end that every individual and every organ of society. 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.