Sunday, December 10, 2023 marked the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
Though most people may not have ever heard of this document before, it holds significant historical meaning for the human rights advancements we have seen in the past 75 years, as well as those we continue to see and strive towards today.
The UDHR has provided the legal framework and foundation of the International Human Rights Law. It has inspired global treaties and domestic laws, has been cited in a number of court cases, and has served as the legal foundation for many human rights decisions on issues around the world.
The UDHR provides a summary of essential rights and freedoms that every human being is entitled to (life, security, the right to work, education, and freedom from both torture and slavery to name a few). It bans discrimination of any kind and while highlighting equality and advocating for various human rights causes (civil rights, women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights).
Similarly, the UDHR has been an essential tool for human rights advocates and organizations in order to raise awareness, mobilize public support, and hold governments accountable for human rights violations. The principles found within the UDHR are woven into educational curricula worldwide, and contribute to the continued awareness and understanding of human rights for children and adults alike.
The UDHR has been a primary source for international relations, impacting diplomatic discourse and shaping discussions on human rights within various international forums. It has played an influential role in the creation of international institutions such as the United Nations Human Rights Council, for addressing and monitoring human rights issues on an international level.
Finally, The UDHR defends the concept of “responsibility to protect,” which argues that it is the responsibility of the international community to step in when a state is unable or unwilling to protect its citizens from mass atrocities.
We must celebrate the advancements made in human rights through the last 75 years which the UDHR is central to. However, there is more work to be done, and it is the responsibility of the international community through cooperation, advocacy, and continued work of governments, civil societies, and individuals alike for continued change to happen.
Traver Butcher
CEO/All Shores Consulting
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