What does the term "human rights" refer to?

The term "human rights" refers to the basic, fundamental rights that belong to all people simply by virtue of being human. These rights are universal, inalienable, and inherent to every individual, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, gender, or any other status. They encompass a wide range of protections and freedoms, including the right to life, liberty, personal security, and freedom from torture or degrading treatment.

While state laws may provide specific rights and privileges, those rights can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another and are not applicable to all individuals globally. Similarly, the rights limited to residents in care facilities pertain only to a specific group rather than the general population. Privileges granted by healthcare providers are conditional and do not reflect the universal nature of human rights. Therefore, the correct interpretation is that human rights are fundamental rights inherent to every individual, which underscores their importance in ethical discussions and legal frameworks regarding dignity and equality.