Part I State Obligations and Rights Protected, Ch.II Civil and Political Rights, Art.11: Right to Privacy

Abstract

This chapter explores Article 11 of the American Convention on Human Rights (ACHR), which protects the right to privacy, honor, dignity, and private and family life. The provision is fundamental, as it recognizes that the dignity of the human being is not only a moral value but also an individual right that shall be respected and protected by the law (Article 11-3). The provision is divided into three paragraphs. Under the first paragraph, the holder is entitled to the respect of their honor and the recognition of their dignity. The second paragraph is worded negatively and affirms the right of everyone not to be arbitrarily or abusively attacked or interfered with in one's private life, family, home, correspondence, honor, and reputation. Paragraph 3 reinforces the protection against “interference or attacks,” but again, the interference referred to are those mentioned in Paragraph 2 that leaves aside the issue of dignity.