Socialist perspectives on human rights

The Marxist-Leninist theory of human rights is in sharp contrast to the Western liberal perspective. It considers that the individual is not an abstract entity but is indivisible from the social whole. According to them, economic liberty came first to socio-political liberty.  The freedom from exploitation is first right of the citizen. As socio-economic relations imporove, it consolidates the material and spiritual wealth and implements human rights. The socialist doctrine of rights is best reflected in the constitutions of the former USSR (1936 and 1977).  Most of the rights in USSR constitution were economic, social & cultural rights, freedom of speech & expression etc. Citizens are also expected to perform many obligations and duties imposed by the socialist system of governance. Many provisions of the Soviet bill of rights were subject to limitations.  Despite these limitations on the rights , Soviet system seriously implemented some of the socio-economic rights. For instance, Soviet Government provides best class of health and accomodation to its citizens.