What is the primary obligation established by the European Convention on Human Rights?

The primary obligation established by the European Convention on Human Rights is to secure rights. This international treaty was created to protect and promote essential human rights and fundamental freedoms across its member states. It enshrines a range of rights, including the right to life, prohibition of torture, and the right to a fair trial, among others. These rights are judicially enforceable, meaning individuals can bring cases before the European Court of Human Rights if they believe their rights under the Convention have been violated.

The Convention provides a legal framework that obliges states to respect and ensure these rights, thereby enhancing legal protection for individuals. This emphasis on securing rights reflects the Convention's purpose of establishing a common standard for human rights protection across Europe, ensuring that all member states adhere to these standards.

The other options, while they may represent important aspects of international relations or cultural interactions, do not align with the core purpose of the Convention. The focus is squarely on protecting human rights rather than promoting cultural exchange, overseeing international law, or enhancing trade relations.