New Report Highlights Key Priorities for Human Rights Incorporation in Scotland

New Report Highlights Key Priorities for Human Rights Incorporation in Scotland

We’re pleased to publish a new expert briefing by Professor Nicole Busby of the University of Glasgow, commissioned by HRCS. The report, Current Priorities for Human Rights Incorporation in Scotland, offers timely analysis of the Scottish Government’s proposed Human Rights Bill and sets out clear recommendations for civil society engagement in the lead-up to the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections.

With incorporation of international human rights treaties into Scots law on the horizon, the report explores how to maximise the impact of the legislation within the constraints of devolution. It identifies six key priorities for action:

1. Ensuring compliance-based incorporation remains the long-term goal
2. Clarifying the impact of devolution on rights delivery
3. Clearly articulating the right to a healthy environment
4. Simplifying and streamlining the use of positive duties
5. Considering the rights under CERD, CEDAW and CRPD in more detail
6. Protecting public services from being contracted out to private actors

We encourage all those working for a fairer Scotland to read and share this important contribution, and to use it as a springboard for advocacy and action in the months ahead.

Access the full report here.

Plain text version available here.