Economic, Social and Cultural Rights in Scotland

This briefing paper examines the status of economic, social and cultural (ESC) rights in Scotland. The purpose of the paper is to provide a clear explanation of what we mean by 'ESC' rights, how they are currently protected in Scotland and how they might be protected in the future. ESC rights are rights that relate to housing, education, employment, standard of living and health. They are rights that enhance the lived experience of everyone and support our fundamental right to dignity. They also more broadly protect vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, the disabled, the unemployed and minority communities. ESC rights are internationally legally binding standards that are not currently provided for in the UK or Scotland in a full and comprehensive way