Which of the following rights can never be derogated according to international law?

The right to life is considered a fundamental human right that is non-derogable under international law. This means that states cannot suspend or limit this right, even in times of emergency or conflict. The protection of the right to life is enshrined in several important international human rights instruments, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which states that no one shall be arbitrarily deprived of life.

In contrast, other rights, such as the right to free assembly, the right to a fair trial, and the right to wage strikes, may be subject to limitations or restrictions under certain circumstances, particularly when public safety or order is at stake. These rights can be derogated, meaning that governments may impose certain restrictions in times of emergency, provided that such measures are necessary and proportionate.

Hence, the absolute protection of the right to life serves as a cornerstone of international human rights law, emphasizing that the value of human life cannot be compromised under any circumstances. This principle underscores the commitment of the international community to uphold the sanctity of life.