The book undertakes a comprehensive examination of the often overlooked but crucial dimension of social and economic rights within the framework of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). As societies evolve and face new challenges, understanding the interplay between civil and political rights and socio-economic rights becomes increasingly vital. This work seeks to bridge the gap in existing literature by delving into the historical development, jurisprudential evolution, and contemporary relevance of social and economic rights through the lens of the ECHR. The book begins by tracing the historical roots of social and economic rights international and in Europe and their exclusion from the text of the ECHR. It explores landmark cases and legal interpretations that have shaped the understanding of these rights within the European human rights framework. Emphasis will be placed on the jurisprudential evolution of key provisions, shedding light on the dynamics between states' obligations and individuals' entitlements in the socio-economic realm. Furthermore, the book analyses the practical implications of social and economic rights in the daily lives of individuals, considering contemporary challenges such as economic inequality, access to healthcare, housing, and education. Drawing on recent developments and emerging jurisprudence, the proposal aims to provide a nuanced perspective on how the ECHR addresses and adapts to the evolving social and economic landscape in Europe. In addition, the book critically assesses the impact of social and economic rights on state policies, focusing on the delicate balance between individual liberties and societal responsibilities. Special attention is given to the role of the European Court of Human Rights in shaping and enforcing social and economic rights, and the potential for further development in this area. Overall, this book contributes to the academic discourse on human rights by offering a thorough analysis of the social and economic dimensions within the ECHR. By exploring the historical, jurisprudential, and contemporary aspects, this book provides a valuable resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers engaged in the ongoing dialogue surrounding the protection and promotion of human rights in Europe.

Dr Claire-Michelle Smyth is an Associate Professor of Law at Kingston University.  She graduated from Queens University Belfast in 2015 with a PhD focusing on the constitutionalisation of social and economic rights. Since then she has published and taught widely in the areas of international human rights law with a specific focus on social and economic rights. She has also spoken at numerous national and international conferences on this topic.