“To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity”-Nelson Mandela
On December 10, this year marks the 75th anniversary of Human Rights Day. In the realm of human rights, the notion is simple: every individual, no matter where they come from, has a natural entitlement to basic rights and freedoms.These rights are not privileges; they are universal and inviolable. However, turning this simple idea into a reality reveals a complex maze of challenges in practical implementation.
Theme for Human Rights Day2023:
The2023 theme echoes “Freedom, Equality and Justice for All.” Since theUniversal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) adoption, there’s been global progress in recognizing and protecting human rights. It serves as the foundation for an expanding system that reaches vulnerable groups like migrants, indigenous peoples, and individuals with disabilities.
Unraveling History:
The historical tapestry of human rights is woven across centuries, societies, religions, and cultures grappling with defining notions of rightfulness, justice, and rights. Modern affirmation of universal human rights emerged post-World War II with the creation of theUN. The treaty establishing the UN aimed to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights. In 1948, the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adocument crafted by an international committee chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt, laying the groundwork for modern international human rights law.
Principles of the UDHR:
Comprising 30 articles, the UDHR rests on the principle that all humans are born free and equal. Covering civil, political, social, economic, and cultural rights, it emphasizes universality, indivisibility, and interdependence.
Challenges and Criticisms:
Despite the well-developed principles within international human rights law, persistent global abuses raise questions about enforcement mechanisms. The UDHR, authoritative yet non-binding, lacks robust mechanisms to address violations when individual countries transgress. Critics argue that it’s naive to consider human rights a given in a world where state interests wield significant power. They question the universality of human rights, highlighting the influence of a few Western nations to the detriment of inclusiveness. This results in a general bias favouring civil-political liberties over socio-political and individual over collective or group rights
Evolution of Human Rights Laws:
On the opposing side, advocates defend universal human rights laws for setting international standards and aiding activists. Not all international human rights instruments are powerless. Human rights law continually evolves to align with changing views and definitions of basic human rights, considering questions such as the right to democracy or development. In an increasingly digital world, discussions around the right to access the internet and digital privacy become pertinent.
“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”- Eleanor Roosevelt
Reflecting on Human Rights Day goes beyond acknowledging progress. It urges us to evolve, narrowing gender gaps, dismantling racism, ensuring equal employment, and fortifying safety. The journey toward a world of justice, dignity, and freedom for all demands ongoing commitment, dialogue, and a collective effort to bridge these crucial gaps.
