Human Rights Day | Why , Celebration

Human Rights Day | Why , Celebration

What is Human Rights Day?

Directly above of male and female activists preparing posters for social movement (Image-Getty Images)

Around the world, Human Rights Day is annually observed on December 10th to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. This pivotal document declares the inherent rights to which every individual is entitled, irrespective of nationality, race, religion, or other factors.

In the United States, Human Rights Day serves as a moment to contemplate the significance of human rights and to generate awareness regarding the persistent challenges and initiatives aimed at safeguarding and advancing these rights. Throughout the country, diverse events, discussions, and activities may unfold, emphasizing the importance of human rights and advocating for their universal application. Organizations, educational institutions, and communities frequently engage in events that spotlight human rights issues and foster a culture of respect and dignity for all individuals.

This is the beginning of anything you want(Getty Images)

It is noteworthy that Human Rights Day transcends national boundaries; it is a global observance underlining the collective commitment to the preservation of human rights on a worldwide scale.

Why is December 10th Human Rights Day?

On December 10th, we celebrate Human Rights Day in the United States and around the world. This day marks the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), a special document adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948. The UDHR talks about the basic rights and freedoms that every person should have, no matter where they come from or what they look like.

We chose December 10th for Human Rights Day because it's the day the UDHR was adopted. People all over the world take this day to think about and recognize the importance of human rights. In the United States, it's a reminder of our commitment to supporting the rights and dignity of everyone.

Human Rights Day events usually involve activities that help people learn about human rights issues, speak up for the protection of these rights, and encourage a culture of treating everyone with respect and fairness. It's a chance for us to confirm our dedication to the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and to strive for a world where these rights are valued and upheld everywhere.

What are the 10 human rights?

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) contains 30 articles that collectively encompass a wide range of human rights. The initial 10 articles are as follows:

1. Right to Equality: Every person is born free and equal in dignity and rights. They possess reason and conscience and should treat one another with a sense of brotherhood.

2. Freedom from Discrimination:  Everyone has the right to all the freedoms and rights outlined in this Declaration, without any form of discrimination based on race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, or other status.

3. Right to Life, Liberty, and Security: All individuals have the right to life, liberty, and security of person.

4. Freedom from Slavery: No one should be held in slavery or servitude; slavery and the slave trade are to be prohibited in all forms.

5. Freedom from Torture and Degrading Treatment:  No one should be subjected to torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment.

6. Right to Recognition as a Person before the Law:  Every person is entitled to be recognized as a person before the law, wherever they may be.

7. Right to Equality before the Law:  Everyone is equal before the law and has the right to equal protection under the law without any discrimination.

8. Right to Remedy by Competent Tribunal:  Every individual has the right to seek an effective remedy through competent national tribunals for acts violating the fundamental rights granted by the constitution or by law.

9. Freedom from Arbitrary Arrest and Exile:  No one should be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention, or exile.

10. Right to Fair Public Hearing: Every person is entitled to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal, with full equality in the determination of their rights, obligations, and any criminal charges against them.

These principles laid out in the UDHR serve as the basis for dignity, equality, and justice for all.

What is the role of UNESCO in human rights?

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, significantly contributes to the promotion of human rights, particularly in education, culture, and communication. While not having a primary human rights mandate like some other UN agencies, UNESCO aligns its work with human rights principles. Key contributions include emphasizing human rights in education, recognizing cultural rights, advocating for freedom of expression, addressing ethics in science and technology, promoting gender equality, supporting media literacy, and fostering international collaboration to address global human rights challenges. UNESCO's focus on education, culture, and communication aligns with the principles of international agreements such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.