Chapter 1 | Page 16 1.3.1 Research questions The concept of ‘maximum available resources’ as outlined in Article 2(1) of the ICESCR has far-reaching implications for the academic understanding of the nature of ESC rights obligations and State practice. The clarity with which this concept and its relevant parameters are articulated in human rights scholarship can, not only strengthen the case for a more serious commitment to ESC rights, but also help provide a more refined and cohesive approach to advocacy for ESC rights and monitoring violations of these rights. To achieve this clarity within a cross-disciplinary framework and to expand the operational understanding and the intellectual, conceptual and theoretical space around the concept of ‘maximum available resources’, the following questions were addressed: 1. What are the existing scholarly interpretations of the concept of ‘maximum available resources’ in the context of the ICESCR and how do they reflect the nature of State obligations in practice? 2. How can the interpretation of the concept of ‘maximum available resources’ be further enriched by applying cross-disciplinary perspectives, including legal, economic, public policy and public finance dimensions, to address policy challenges and approaches to maximising mobilisation, allocation and governance of resources for the realisation of ESC rights? 3. What policy approaches can be employed to enhance the mobilisation, allocation and governance of resources for ESC rights, and what evidence is available in State practice regarding the practicability of such approaches?