Economic Inequality as a Human Rights Violation: An International Perspective Analysis

Abstract

Economic inequality, both between countries and within countries, is the main challenge for the fulfillment of Human Rights (Hak Asasi Manusia/HAM) in the era of globalization. This article analyzes the relationship between economic inequality and human rights violations through a literature review approach, with reference to international human rights instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). The results show that global inequality is largely caused by international economic structures that benefit developed countries, while domestic inequality is exacerbated by unfair fiscal policies, discrimination, and weak governance. These findings underscore the need for structural reforms at the global level, institutional capacity building at the national level, and strengthening legal protections for vulnerable groups. International efforts such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are considered positive, but their effectiveness is still limited. Therefore, a holistic, sustainable, and social justice-based solution is needed to address economic inequality as a human rights issue, so that every individual can enjoy basic rights equally.