Health and Human Rights Partnership commentary published in the Journal of Public Health Ethics
- Area of Work: The ALLIANCE
- Type: News Item
- Published: 13th January 2026
New article highlights the role of human rights in tackling health inequalities in Scotland
A new commentary published in the Journal of Public Health Ethics includes work from the Health and Health and Human Rights Partnership (HHRP), of which the Alliance is a member
The paper explored why linking public health and human rights is important, particularly in the context of persistent health inequalities in Scotland, where the right to health is not equally experienced. It highlights how international human rights frameworks can support fairness and accountability in public health decision-making
The commentary also examines how existing public health duties align with proposed duties under the Scottish Human Rights Bill. While some alignment is identified, the paper point towards gaps – especially around budgeting and financial reporting – and suggests the need for clearer integration of human rights into public health guidance and practice.
The Health and Human Rights Partnership, established in 2015, brings together legal expertise, public health perspective and lived experience to support rights-based approaches to health in Scotland
This paper forms part of a wider programme of work produced by HHRP, including practical tools to support rights-based policy and practice, available at New tools to help improve rights-based policy and practice – Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland
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