Celebrating Universal Human Rights: A Historical Perspective
Human Rights Day is observed annually around the world on December 10th. It commemorates the anniversary of one of the world's most groundbreaking global pledges: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on December 10, 1948, and sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected. The UDHR was drafted as “a common standard of achievement for all peoples and nations” and was the first universal statement that all human beings have certain inherent rights that are inalienable.
The Genesis of a Universal Standard
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) consists of a preamble and thirty articles covering such human rights as freedom of expression, assembly, movement, and religion. It sets out the basic principle of equality and non-discrimination in terms of the enjoyment of human rights and affirms that everyone shall be free from slavery, torture, and arbitrary arrest or detention. Article 1 describes the philosophy on which the UDHR is based. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.
Although it is not a binding document, the UDHR can be seen as contributing to the understanding, implementation, and development of international human rights law. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights states that the UDHR “has set the direction for all subsequent work in the field of human rights and has provided the basic philosophy for many legally binding international instruments designed to protect the rights and freedoms which it proclaims.”
The Enduring Impact of the UDHR
There have been a number of international covenants on different aspects of human rights since the adoption of the UDHR. While not all governments have become parties to all of these treaties, all United Nations (UN) member countries have accepted the UDHR.
The UDHR's principles extend to various facets of human existence, influencing how we perceive our roles and responsibilities within the global community. Its articles provide a framework for societies to build upon, ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity and respect.
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Marking Human Rights Day
The UN holds various events and meetings on Human Rights Day and has established the Human Rights Prize to recognize “outstanding achievements in the field of human rights.” The day is also observed by various government and non-government organizations through statements, events, and publications, including the United States where presidents have issued proclamations for Human Rights Day for more than 60 years.
Past observances have had a range of themes, including human rights education, torture, and fighting poverty. The 70th anniversary of the UDHR was celebrated on Human Rights Day 2018. In honor of this anniversary, the UN launched the campaign "Stand Up For Human Rights".
Human Rights as Lived Realities
Human rights are lived realities. They are the essentials we all share, the common ground that unites us across differences of race, gender, belief, or background. In a world of uncertainty, human rights remain our everyday constants. They begin with us, with the small, everyday choices we make from treating others with respect, speaking up against unfairness, and listening to those whose voices are often ignored. Everyday choices and voices matter more than you may realize; they build a culture of dignity and fairness around us. They not only protect, they also bring joy, happiness and safety into daily life.
The 2021 Theme: All Human, All Equal
The 2021 Human Rights Day theme "All Human, All Equal" relates to article 1 of the UDHR. Through this campaign, we aim to re-engage people with human rights by showing how they shape our daily lives, often in ways we may not always notice.
International Days: A Tool for Advocacy
International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. The existence of international days predates the establishment of the United Nations, but the UN has embraced them as a powerful advocacy tool.
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Visualizing Human Rights
The first animated version of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was created through the United Nations partnership with French digital artist YAK (Yacine Ait Kaci) - whose illustrated character Elyx is the first digital ambassador of the United Nations. The animation uses symbolic movements to bring to life the 30 Articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Showcasing Human Rights Through Photography
Explore the works of talented amateur and professional photographers from exhibitions for the general public that have been showcased over the years at United Nations Headquarters. Some of the human rights topics covered are indigenous peoples' rights, the Nazi genocide of the Roma and Sinti, sexual violence in conflict, and the plight of the Palestinian people.
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