Conducting Critical Analysis on International Communication Rights Standards: The Contributions of Graphical Knowledge Modeling

Abstract Using the computerized application of Modeling using Object Types (MOT) theory, this article examines the normative dimension of official interpretations of a corpus of core “communication rights” (the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the right to privacy, the right to participate in cultural life, and the right to education) enshrined and protected by the International Covenants on Human Rights. This article proposes a methodological contribution whereby the computerized application of knowledge modeling theory promotes the analysis and popularization of international human rights standards. Research findings draw attention to significant conceptual deficiencies included as part of international human rights standards. These deficiencies undermine the applicability of these standards and their relative usefulness in the context of complex sociopolitical issues relating to communication. In addition, this article underscores the need for communication rights studies to further integrate contributions from the field of international human rights law research. It demonstrates that interdisciplinary dialogue can open up new research agendas for communication rights scholars and contribute to a renewed critical analysis of international human rights standards.