Updated February 24, 2023
About Human Rights Day
Human Rights Day is also an international day of observance that is celebrated annually on December 10th. It is also called commemorating the anniversary of the adoption of the UDHR, or the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights plays a prominent role in coordinating the world to celebrate the day. The day entails celebrations that routinely feature cultural events and other performances, including public meetings, seminars, and other educational activities that promote human rights.
Human Rights
- Human rights are inherent and universal rights guaranteed to all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or another status.
- They are the fundamental principles of dignity and equality to which all people are entitled.
- Human rights have their origins in ancient civilizations. Still, the modern concept of human rights as we know it today emerged during the Enlightenment in Europe and the Americas in the 18th and 19th centuries.
- The United Nations General Assembly adopted this in 1948; the Universal Declaration of Human Rights codified and defined the concept of human rights and established a common standard of human rights to be upheld and respected by all countries and nations.
- The Universal Declaration of Human Rights lists several categories of rights, including civil and political rights such as freedom of expression, assembly, and religion, as well as the right to participate in government; economic, social, and cultural rights such as the right to work, education, and an adequate standard of living; and collective rights such as the right to self-determination and cultural protection.
Human Rights Day
- On December 10th, Human Rights Day celebrates the day in 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly embraced the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
- The essential liberties and rights to which every human being is entitled, irrespective of race, gender, religion, or any other status, are set forth in this text, which serves as a universal human standard.
- It is an opportunity to reflect on the progress in promoting and protecting human rights, raising awareness about ongoing human rights violations, and the importance of continuing efforts to defend and uphold these rights.
- Around the world, protests, marches, and educational gatherings are organised on this day to highlight the value of human rights and to demand more efforts to guarantee that these rights are respected and upheld for everyone.
- It serves as a reminder that human rights are more than just abstract principles; they are a fundamental aspect of every person’s dignity and well-being.
- It is a day to commemorate the advancements made in promoting and protecting human rights, as well as to reaffirm our commitment to working towards a world where everyone can live with dignity, freedom, and equality.
Human Rights in India
- India is a democratic country with a strong legal system that safeguards human rights.
- The Indian Constitution recognizes and guarantees its citizens’ fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, religion, and movement; equality before the law, and protection from discrimination and exploitation.
- India has ratified several international human rights treaties and agreements, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights.
- In promoting and protecting human rights, India faces several challenges, including widespread poverty, discrimination, and inequality, particularly among marginalized communities such as Dalits, tribals, and women.
- There have also been stated violations of human rights, such as police brutality and extrajudicial killings.
- There has been increased public concern about human rights issues in India in recent years. Several civil society organizations and human rights advocates are working to raise awareness and promote change.
Why to Celebrate?
- Raising awareness: It provides an opportunity to educate people about the importance of human rights and to raise awareness about the content of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
- To commemorate advancement: The commemoration of Human Rights Day provides an opportunity to reflect on global and local progress in promoting and protecting human rights.
- To highlight ongoing issues: Despite progress in promoting and protecting human rights, many challenges and abuses persist. Human Rights Day is an opportunity to draw attention to these issues and call for increased efforts to defend and uphold human rights.
- To reaffirm our commitment: Human Rights Day is an opportunity to work towards a world where everyone can live with dignity, freedom, and equality and pledge to do our part to defend and promote human rights.
Human rights are necessary for every person’s dignity and well-being, and their protection and promotion are necessary for the advancement of society as a whole.
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