Development and Knowledge Utilisation as a Human Right

Abstract

This article analyses human development as a human right from different perspectives. It differentiates between the right for acquiring human development, and the right for the opportunity to capitalise on knowledge and skills. The article examines human development based on a comprehensive literature survey with special focus on the UNDP HDI (Human Development Index). It concludes by emphasising the importance of securing the rights for achieving the highest possible development level for all citizens pointing out that actually this is also an economic interest. The economies and societies can only develop sustainably if a considerable human wealth, well-educated and healthy population is available, and the efficient deployment of these resources is facilitated by modern knowledgebased economic structures.