Right to Life
/ˈraɪt tə laɪf/
Definitions
- (n.) The fundamental legal right guaranteeing protection of an individual's life against unjust deprivation.
The right to life is protected under many international human rights treaties.
- (n.) A principle often invoked in debates concerning abortion, euthanasia, and capital punishment to safeguard human life.
The right to life is central in discussions about the legality of assisted suicide.
Related terms
Commentary
Typically invoked in constitutional and human rights law, the term encompasses protection against arbitrary killing and is foundational in ethical and legal debates on life-related issues.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.