International and European protection standards of the rights of vulnerable groups of population

Abstract

The article presents scientific categories: discrimination, hate crimes, vulnerable groups. It is studied the issues of legal protection of vulnerable categories of population in the context of formation of active human rights policy of state aimed at increasing the capacity of socially vulnerable groups and reducing the risks of growing social tensions in society. The analysis’ results of the European experience in combating intolerance and discrimination and development of proposals for improving domestic legislation are presented.

The urgency of the problem is exacerbated by the fact that discrimination, as a manifestation of violations of the rights of members of certain groups (on the basis of age, health, social status, nationality, etc.) causes global negative consequences for society and state. Violation of the rule of law, legality, leveling of the rule of law, negative impact on international image of the state - only a small list of political and legal consequences of discrimination.

In the current crisis, the population of Ukraine is acutely aware of instability - in families, personal security, in social environment, as well as in global politics. The general situation with respect for human rights in the state is reflected in numerous violations of the rights of vulnerable groups, which should cause special attention and concern to public authorities and human rights organizations

In the study of the EU and Ukraine legal systems’ essence in their relationship, a civilizational approach becomes relevant, which allows to establish legal elements through the prism of the diversity of scientific positions of representatives of different legal systems and legal cultures. It helps to identify the national legal system’ features in the field of functioning of law principles and norms, pointing to the uniqueness of legal system of Ukraine and at the same time emphasizing the shortcomings and differences caused by public awareness, law enforcement.

The normative basis of legal protection study of vulnerable groups is the acts of current legislation of Ukraine, international acts in the field of protection of human rights and freedoms, as well as the case law of the European Court of Human Rights.