---
title: "ICESCR Definition and Overview | Model Diplomat"
description: "The ICESCR is a 1966 UN treaty requiring states to progressively realize economic, social, and cultural rights, crucial for human rights law."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/icescr"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is a 1966 UN treaty obligating states to progressively realise economic, social and cultural rights.
- How does ICESCR's obligation differ from that of the ICCPR?
- Which body monitors the ICESCR?
- What is the significance of the 2008 Optional Protocol?
- How has India given effect to ICESCR rights domestically?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights is a 1966 UN treaty obligating states to progressively realise economic, social and cultural rights.

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## Timeline

1. 16 December 1966

   The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) is a multilateral human rights treaty adopted by the UN General Assembly on thro…

2. 3 January 1976

   It entered into force on after the deposit of the thirty-fifth instrument of ratification, as required by Article 27.

3. 10 April 1979

   India ratified it on (with declarations relating to Articles 1, 4–8).

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Example

India ratified the ICESCR on 10 April 1979, and in Olga Tellis v. Bombay Municipal Corporation (1985) the Supreme Court drew on the right to livelihood reflected in the Covenant to read it into Article 21.

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