Access to Electricity as a Universal Human Right:‎ A Study of the European Union’s Novel Approach

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
amir saed vakil 1
Zahra Nafari 2
Alireza Delavar 3
Saleh Gholam Heidari 3
1 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Law and Political Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran‎
2 Master's student in oil and gas law, Alborz campus of Tehran University, Karaj, Iran‎
3 Master's student in oil and gas law, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran‎
10.30503/ewl.2024.211006
Abstract
Access to electricity in the contemporary world is of such critical importance that it underpins activities ranging from everyday conveniences, such as mobile phone use, to essential medical services. Nevertheless, international legal instruments have only sporadically addressed access to electricity, either implicitly or explicitly, raising questions about its recognition as a human right. This study explores various theories on the legal characterization of the right to electricity and seeks to answer whether it qualifies as a recognized human right. Additionally, it examines whether any interruption in electricity supply constitutes a violation of this right and, if so, what other human rights might be affected. Furthermore, the legal framework of the European Union, as one of the most active regulatory entities in this domain, is analyzed. The research also delves into legal interpretations that significantly shape human rights, with a focus on the most relevant interpretations concerning electricity access. The findings reveal that recognizing access to electricity as a human right would not only elevate its importance on an international scale but also compel governments to take concrete steps to ensure universal access to this essential resource. Ultimately, this study emphasizes the critical need for acknowledging electricity access as a fundamental right to advance sustainable development and uphold human rights globally.
Keywords
European Union
Human ‎Rights
Electricity Access
‎Power Outages
‎Sustainable Development.‎
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