The right to development is a comprehensive human right, also referred to by scholars as “the alpha and omega of rights” (Bedjaoui 1991). However, particularly this ideal, all-inclusive nature of the right to development poses implementation anxieties. The question that emerges is how could the realization of such a right be ensured?

To that end this article sheds light on the content, scope and nature of the right to development, including its rights holders and duty bearers, and discusses the implications of the complex nature of this right for its realization. The article argues that key to ensuring an adequate realization of this right is understanding development as moving away from the one-sided econocentric view, and instead taking an expansive approach by which social inclusion and improvement of capabilities in life should be placed at the heart of development. Therefore, inherent to the right of development are the principles of non-discrimination, equity, participation, transparency and accountability (for past and present violations), and overall social justice.