An Overview of the ECHR, Scotland (November 2025)

An AIUK parliamentary briefing marking the 75th anniversary of the European Convention on Human Rights

This briefing outlines why the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) remains fundamental to the UK’s constitutional, legal and international framework. Created in the aftermath of the Second World War—with the UK playing a leading role—the Convention protects a core set of universal rights and is upheld by the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. The document explains how ECHR membership underpins the UK’s participation in the Council of Europe, supports international efforts on democracy and the rule of law, and is embedded in key constitutional arrangements in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It also highlights the ECHR’s relevance to the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, where continued adherence is essential for security cooperation and wider treaty obligations.