Many commentators complain about the politicization and selectivity of the Human

Topic 1

Many commentators complain about the politicization and selectivity of the Human

Rights Council, and highlight how the guiding principles do not drive the work of the

Council or the agendas of its members.

Do you agree? Critically analyse the performance of the Human Rights Council, and

give reasons for your answer.

Topic 2

Not only did Australia miss its deadline for compliance with the Optional Protocol to

the Convention Against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment (2002) (OPCAT) in January 2023, but the Subcommittee on the Prevention

of Torture formally terminated its official visit to Australia in February 2023. Australia

has had since December 2017 to prepare for the domestic implementation of OPCAT, with comprehensive guidance provided by numerous reports by the Commonwealth

Ombudsman and the Australian Human Rights Commission.

What must Australia and its sub-jurisdictions do to ensure compliance with Australias

obligations under the OPCAT? What has been done and what remains to be done?

Each essay 3000 words

Marking Criteria for Assessment:

The Assessment task requires you to undertake your own critical analysis of the

materials you have researched, not simply summarise of the views of other writers or

commentators. Students should demonstrate their ability to synthesise and critically

analyse both primary sources (e.g. international instruments, cases and legislation) and

secondary sources (e.g. textbooks, articles and government reports).

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Research papers/essays will be assessed in accordance with the following criteria:

Knowledge and Understanding of the topic, including:

i) Thoroughness of research, and evidence of selectivity and focus in

research strategy;

ii) Use of source materials;

iii) Identification and discussion of the relevant issues and arguments;

iv) Coverage of the subject matter;

v) Accurate and thorough knowledge of the relevant law.

Analysis and Argument, including:

i) Critical analysis of the issues (as opposed to descriptive or discursive

approaches);

ii) Synthesis and critical evaluation of the source materials;

iii) Quality and persuasiveness of the argument (i.e. issues followed through,

arguments fully developed, implications explored, contrary arguments

anticipated);

iv) Appropriate selection and use of source materials/examples in support of

argument/analysis;

v) Evidence that the student has criticised and qualified their own arguments.

Originality, including:

i) Insight into the topic/subject matter;

ii) Presence of an authors voice (i.e. does the author make clear their own

views in relation to issues discussed?);

Structure, Writing, Presentation, Referencing and Word Count, including:

i) Clarity and appropriateness of structure;

ii) Appropriate transitions between parts of the research paper (you should

have an introduction and a conclusion, and plenty of sign posts);

iii) Precision and conciseness in writing;

iv) Compliance with formatting and referencing requirements, including

correct citation practice;

v) Appropriate use of footnotes;

vi) Grammar, spelling and punctuation;

vii) Compliance with the word limit you will lose 1 mark per 100 words (or

part thereof) in excess of the word limi