The aim of the book is to provide a global view of the field of human rights today. Cassese proceeds by a case–by–case approach, investigating certain key issues, such as crimes against humanity, genocide, torture, apartheid, and mass hunger, using these issues as a means of shedding light on the broader theme of human rights. Drawing on these case studies, Cassese develops a general analysis of human rights in the modern world and formulates an agenda for action, indicating what the citizens of particular states can do to ensure the practical application of human rights internationally.