Economic, social and cultural rights guarantee the freedoms and privileges of individuals and communities to lead dignified lives.  Economic and social rights ensure basic human needs and socio-economic development of a country. Economic rights include the right to work, the right to fair remuneration, a safe working environment, the creation and association of trade unions etc. Social rights include the right to health, the right to housing, the right to education etc. Cultural rights include the right to the protection of culture and tradition and the right to social and cultural opportunities.  Economic, social and cultural rights are regarded as second-generation rights. These rights are protected under various international and regional instruments and also in national constitutions. The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is the broadest instrument protecting those rights at the international level.

Economic, social and cultural rights guarantee the freedoms and privileges necessary for individuals and society to lead a life of dignity. Economic and social rights are rights that must be provided for the satisfaction of basic human needs and the socio-economic development of a country.

Economic rights include, among others, the right to work, the right to fair wages, a safe working environment, and the right to form and join trade unions.

Social rights include the right to health, the right to housing, the right to education, and many others. Many of the social rights are fundamental to human survival.

Cultural rights include the right to protection of culture and customs, and the right to social and cultural opportunities. Economic, social, and cultural rights are considered second generation rights. Economic, social and cultural rights are protected under various international and regional treaties and in national constitutions. The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is the most comprehensive international treaty that protects these rights.