First Generation (Civil and Political Rights)

        Date back to 18th Century

        Designed to protect the individual against state interference

• Right to vote
• Right to assemble
• Right to free speech
• Right to a fair trial
• Right to freedom from torture, abuse
• Right to protection of the law

Second Generation (Economic, Social and Cultural Rights)

        19th Century response to widespread poverty in wake of industrial revolution

        Prohibit government from denying access, entitle individuals to get protection from state if third parties interfere with rights,

        oblige states to take measures to improve overall social situation

• Right to education
• Right to housing
• Right to health
• Right to employment
• Right to an adequate income
• Right to social security

Third Generation (Collective Rights)

        First articulated in second half of the 20th Century

        With exception of African Charter on Human and People's rights, have not been incorporated into human rights treaties

        yet

• Right to economic development
• Right to prosperity
• Right to benefit from economic growth
• Right to social harmony
• Right to a healthy environment, clean air and water, etc.