What are fundamental rights and what are the most important?

What are fundamental rights?

The fundamental rights are all privileges or guarantees that are inherent in all people, and as enshrined in the legal system of a country.

Fundamental rights derive directly from human rights, which is why they tend to be confused and used as synonyms; However, they are two different concepts, since human rights are universal, while fundamental rights only apply within the territory to which the laws that contemplate them belong.

The main legal document that groups fundamental rights is the Constitution, that is why fundamental rights are also known as constitutional rights.

However, these guarantees may be expanded in more specific laws, according to what each State considers necessary.

which are my fundamental rights?

Since fundamental rights derive directly from human rights, they are very similar. However, its application varies depending on the laws of each country.

In fact, in many constitutions fundamental rights are grouped by category.

For example, the rights of Mexicans are classified as:

Equality rights

It establishes that before the laws of Mexico, all its citizens are equal. And that if there is an exceptional case, the same laws must be used.

Freedom rights

It includes, among others:

• The right to free transit through national territory. The right to free association. The right to work in any trade or profession as long as it is lawful. If any person enters Mexican territory in conditions of slavery, they will be protected by the laws and will be considered a free person. The right to freedom of expression. The right to freedom of association, provided it is for lawful purposes.

Property rights

They are rights linked to the economic and productive development of the individual. In this sense, it is contemplated:

• The right to private property The right to access land and waters within the territory, for productive purposes.

Legal security rights

They are the guarantees that all citizens have to access justice. In this sense, it is proposed:

• The right to be notified in writing by the competent authorities in the event that a legal process has been initiated against a person. The right to the effective and prompt administration of justice.

See also:

• Human rights. Constitution.