the principle that all individuals within a state, including government and leaders, are subject to the same laws and must follow them; it ensures fairness, justice and accountability in society

fundamental freedoms and protections that individuals are entitled to by law

a system of government in which citizens vote in regular, fair elections for representatives who then make laws and decisions on their behalf

a law or set of laws that have been passed by Parliament; the word is also used to describe the act of making a new law

What are rights and where do they come from?

Citizenship

Pupils explore how rights have developed in the UK and how they are protected. They look at what changes in society have occurred due to protest. 

Why do we need the right to protest in a democracy?

all individuals must follow and be accountable to the law

fundamental freedoms and protections that individuals are entitled to

a system of government where power is given to the people

laws for how people and institutions should behave in society

Match the word with its correct explanation.

The rule of law applies to citizens, but leaders can bypass it if necessary.

All individuals, including leaders, are subject to the law and accountable.

Leaders can interpret the law freely to ensure stability during crises.

The rule of law only applies when the government is functioning normally.

 Government officials must follow the law, but the monarch is exempt.

Which of the following statements best reflects the principle of the rule of law?

It eliminates the possibility of fair trials.

Historically, one limitation of the rule of law is that:

Allows the government to restrict individual rights without any legal process.

It makes it easier for individuals to defend their rights in UK courts.

It eliminates the need for the UK to follow European human rights standards.

It only applies to public officials and not private citizens.

Which of the following is a strength of the Human Rights Act 1998?

Arrange the different examples of rights legislation into the order in which they were introduced.

a non-governmental organisation that often works for social causes

the branch of government that interprets and applies laws

participating in civic duties to improve society

political and economic union of 27 European countries

an international organisation promoting peace and cooperation

Match the word with its correct definition. 

What do we call a political system in which citizens have the right to vote?

 To protect the rights and freedoms of individuals.

Which of the following is a key purpose of human rights legislation?

The right to own unlimited private property.

Which of the following is not considered a fundamental human right under international law?

Power is concentrated in the hands of one leader or a small group.

Separation of powers among different branches of government.

Which of the following is a key characteristic of a dictatorship?

To allow the government to bypass laws for efficiency.

To prevent abuse of power and protect citizens' rights.

To give leaders the freedom to make unchecked decisions.

To ensure government officials can remain in power indefinitely.

To limit public involvement in government decisions.

Why is it crucial to hold governments accountable in a democracy?

Starter Quiz