Who is responsible for implementing human rights?

Having voluntarily ratified various international conventions, it is the state party who is obliged to live up to the standards they outline. It is states who have ultimate responsibility in protecting, promoting and fulfilling the rights of their population. In reality, agents of the state such as its own civil and public services and local authorities can play a pivotal role in promoting human rights in areas such as education, housing and health. It is to these services that individuals often look to ensure that their rights are respected.