Public Health and Perceived Human Rights Status in Montenegro among Different Age Groups: The National Study

Iran J Public Health. 2023 Jan;52(1):138-146. doi: 10.18502/ijph.v52i1.11675.

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to quantify perceived human rights status and put it into perspective to identify areas for monitoring action and progress.

Methods: The subjects of this cross-sectional study included a sample of 703 respondents (369 males and 334 females) aged between 18 and 82 yr, divided into four age groups. The research was conducted from 23 Apr to 9 Nov 2021 and respondents from all 24 municipalities of Montenegro were included. The sample of variables contained the system of 19 general attitudes, which give a review of human rights accomplishments (modeled by a seven-point Likert scale). The variables were analyzed using ANOVA, MANOVA, and LSD Post Hoc test.

Results: There were differences in the perceived human rights status for different age groups when the interindividual level of interaction (most negative answers in-group IV) and the principle of human rights legislation participation (most negative answers in group I) were considered.

Conclusion: This fact indicates the existence of vulnerable age groups. Members of the oldest age category do not succeed in accomplishing adequate interpersonal communication with the persons from their nearest environment, while the opinion of the youngest age category is not respected enough and the possibility to participate equally in the making of important decisions is not being provided to them.

Keywords: Equity; Health; Human rights.