The evolution of the European system of protection of human rights

The European system of protection of human rights created by the European Convention of 1950 has been subject of a deep evolution since its creation, concerning both its extension and its goals and proceedings. Three phases aat least are visible in this evolution: a first phase, initially oriented to an inter-State collaboration, where the main role corresponded to the European Comission of Human Rights; a second phase, centered on the individualised protection of Convention rights by the European Court of Humna Rights; and finally, ir seems that a third phase is starting, in which the Strasbourg Court is assuming a quasi-constitutional function.