The research area covers questions of how to protect human rights at a time of great global challenges brought about by climate change, armed conflict, pandemics, and new technologies. These challenges which are of global reach affect rights protection in Sweden, EU and around the world.  

Our research environment contributes with research that brings into focus the role and limits of international, regional, and national law and courts in safeguarding human rights, including through the provision of opportunities for redress in case of human rights violations. It extends to the functions of the legislative and executive branches of government, international organizations as well as civil society actors in this endeavor.

It considers specifically the rights of refugees and migrants, women, children, and the elderly. The area is enriched by critical research that directs attention to the constraints imposed by deeper economic, social, and political structures for the full realization of rights.