Since 2008, police authorities have been legally required to monitor their police force regarding compliance with the Human Rights Act 1998.
Human Rights is about protecting the rights and freedoms of everyone, not just particular groups. All individuals therefore have some form of protection under the Human Rights Act.
The police have a range of powers, including powers of arrest and detention. When using such powers the police must ensure that they respect the human rights of all individuals.
The Police Authority monitors South Wales Police to ensure that human rights are being upheld when anyone is in contact with the police – whether as a suspect, victim, witness or any other person. This is done through the Authority’s
Equalities & HR Group.
The Human Rights Act makes the following aspects of the European Convention on Human Rights a part of UK law:
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The right to life
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The right not to be tortured or treated in an inhuman or degrading way
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The right to be free from slavery or forced labour
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The right to liberty
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The right to a fair trial
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The right to no punishment without law
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The right to respect for private and family life, home and correspondence
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The right to freedom of thought conscience and religion
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The right to freedom of expression
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The right to freedom of assembly and association
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The right to marry and found a family
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The right not to be discriminated against in relation to any of the rights contained in the European Convention
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The right to peaceful enjoyment of possessions
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The right to education
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The right to free elections
Not all of the above are absolute rights. Some are limited or qualified rights.