Introduction

The post WWII international framework witnessed the emergence of a set of liberal norms and values conceptualized today as the international set of human rights. In this sense, the system of international law serves as one of the main mechanisms for the development and application of a functioning framework for a universal human rights system. Hopes for the effective functioning of such legal instruments at the international level are high; however the lack of universality in practice and the inherent difficulties of their implementation have highlighted the need for further constant legislation and enforcement to assure the development and the implementation of human rights globally.

Some of the major obstacles obstructing the implementation of such a global human rights system are the economic interests and inequalities of the world as well as the lack of legislation with regards to issues of women's rights, which permeates the international community. Any efforts at supporting universal human rights must therefore be accompanied by legislation that promotes sustainable development as well as the protection of the rights of women and the poor, which together make up the majority of the world population. In addition, issues of security and responsibility to protect must be incorporated as an integral part into international law in order to assure its positive progress and long term success.

The Belgrade Congress on Cultural Diplomacy & Human Rights will gather a broad range of stakeholders to explore and analyze these issues and will formulate recommendations for joint strategies for immediate and future implementation. Speakers and delegates during the symposium will include senior members of the judiciary leading politicians, chief diplomats, leading governmental officials, senior academics, renowned authors, journalists, and celebrated artists. The Congress will create and publish a proposal document that will then be publically presented to the international community.

The Belgrade Conference on International Law & Human Rights will gather a broad range of stakeholders to explore and analyze these issues and will formulate recommendations for joint strategies for immediate and future implementation. The conference will create and publish a proposal document that will then be publically presented to the international community. Speakers and delegates during the conference will include members of the judiciary, politicians, diplomats, governmental officials, academics, authors and journalists.