TOPICAL ISSUES OF THE IMPACT OF AUSTERITY MEASURES ON HUMAN RIGHTS: THE CASE OF EUROPE

The article deals with the issue of the impact of austerity during the economic crisis in the state on the observance of human rights on the example of European countries. The authors briefly analyze the concept of austerity and austerity measures. Three main types of austerity measures are examined. The key international documents and recommendations of international organizations on the impact of the economic crisis on the protection of human rights and the practice of the European Court of Human Rights on this issue are analyzed. In particular, the N.K.M. v. Hungary case (judgment of 14 May 2013), Mamatas and Others v. Greece case (judgment of 21 July 2016). It has been shown that in considering this category of cases, the European Court of Human Rights thoroughly analyzes all circumstances and facts when making judgments regarding the violation of certain articles of the European Convention on Human Rights in the course of the application of measures by the states of austerity. Recommendations on the implementation of necessary measures to overcome the crisis and the simultaneous observance of human rights and freedoms, especially economic and social ones, are necessary to maintain the dignified existence of the population in the state. The authors emphasize the need to define the universal guidelines that states should take into account when introducing austerity measures. Such principle should include inter alia taking into account the peculiarities of economic situation preceding from the austerity measures; the timeliness of the measures taken; their effectiveness and efficiency; measures should be as universal as possible, should not create conditions for discrimination; measures should be as proportional as possible in relation to human rights; there should be public control over the introduction of austerity measures. The author suggests to attach special attention to institutional guarantees of human rights, to increase the scope of the powers of the ombudsman and to strengthen judicial protection of human rights in the context of the implementation of the austerity policy.