The lack of knowledge by individuals in knowing their rights, particularly human rights, remains the biggest challenge in the enforcement of human rights.
A workshop on human rights for magistrates currently underway outlined that those in the rural areas see human rights as a “rich man’s thing” in going to court over alleged breach of their rights due to costs involved.
The lack of awareness and knowledge among simple villagers sees those in the rural areas resort to customs and cultural beliefs.
Customs are also changing in time and are also being used to violate human rights, especially in cases of women being paid compensation over a beating. The relatives benefit while the victim continues to suffer.
Compensation, cultural diversity, parental discipline and religious beliefs are other factors that magistrates outlined are challenges society faces in applying human rights.
A global issue that can be looked at in different levels, insufficient awareness on human rights is the main barrier.
With human rights, there are also community misconceptions.
Pacific Judicial Strengthening Initiative Human Rights Advisor, Dr Carolyn Graydon, says these include individuals thinking they can do whatever they like because of human rights.
Other misconceptions include responsibilities and cultures against human rights.