Human Dignity in National Constitutions: Functions, Promises and Dangers

Human dignity has become widely utilized in national constitutions since WWII. This Article explores the scope of this increased appearance in constitutions worldwide, and the increased frequency of appearance within individual constitutions, as well as the different functions that the term serves at present. Our research demonstrates that human dignity is rapidly gaining recognition and functions in national constitutions. This Article analyzes three functions of human dignity: symbolic-declaratory uses; guidelines for the implementation of rights, and; guidelines as a limitation on fundamental rights. This analysis also demonstrates the influence of certain national constitutions over others in the formulations of human dignity. We call attention to potential promises as well as dangers in the excessive use of the concept and its potential abuses.