As well-established as the right to work is in the industrialized world, in many places it is neither as well-defined nor protected even though signatories to various international treaties profess their adherence to the lofty principles contained in the array of documents addressing what is recognized as a fundamental human right. The right to work is an important human right—without the ability to support themselves, workers have a difficult time affording themselves, and their families, the opportunity to enjoy their other rights.

International documents acknowledge the fundamental right of individuals to work, but do not explicitly address the status of teachers. Employment Rights of Teachers covers twelve different nations in an analysis of rights allowed and denied to teachers throughout the world.