How are rights different from laws?

Rules are prescriptive, and rights are descriptive. As such, rules can be arbitrary, while rights reflect reality. A person can make a rule simply by stating it, then enforcing it. A person can not create rights, but they can defend people from those who encroach upon them.

How to make a rule:

Write it down or declare it. (Invention)

How to observe a right:

Measure a person's autonomy in relation to the autonomy they afford others. Any action that is done freely while at the same time affording the freedom of others can be observed to be a right.

How to enforce rules:

Intimidation, revenge, violence, penalties, threats, punishment, imprisonment, etc.

How to defend rights:

Use momentary physical deflection of attack or verbal persuasion (appeal to compassion) to stop the person from encroaching on the right. Release the attacker as soon as they cease the encroachment.