Is there sound reason for Norway to not ratify the Optional Protocol to the ICESCR? This question is discussed in view of general principles of international law, the author’s experience as an adjudicator within the European human rights system and developments in domestic case law. It is submitted that the better arguments are in favour of ratifying the Optional Protocol and that not doing so may prove to be counter-productive, in particular at the international level.

Keywords: United Nations, Economic Social and Cultural Rights, Council of Europe European Social Charter, Human Rights, Complaints Procedures, Norway.