The State and Civil Society in the Protection of Human Rights: A Hermeneutic Approach

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of the State and civil society in the protection of human rights. In this regard, the epistemic foundations of the State at the international level were reviewed, the epistemological basis of civil society within the international community was identified, and the roles played by both actors in the protection of human rights were analyzed. The study was conducted within a post-positivist paradigm, using a qualitative approach and grounded in the hermeneutic method. The analysis led to a set of final reflections that highlight the importance of respect for human rights by those responsible for guaranteeing them, together with the contribution of civil society in monitoring and safeguarding these rights.