What aspect of individual rights does Article 39 focus on?

Article 39 of the Hong Kong Basic Law specifically emphasizes the protection of civil and political rights, aligning with international human rights standards, particularly the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). This article ensures that the rights and freedoms guaranteed under this covenant are preserved within the legal framework of Hong Kong post-1997.

The focus on civil and political rights includes fundamental liberties such as the right to free speech, assembly, and the right to a fair trial, among others. This protection mirrors global human rights principles and is essential to maintaining a society where individuals can participate freely in political processes and express their rights without fear of repression.

The other options, while relevant to the broader context of human rights, do not encapsulate what Article 39 explicitly outlines. The emphasis is solely on civil and political rights, making it the correct interpretation of Article 39 within the Basic Law framework.