2023 marks the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), a landmark document that sets out the fundamental human rights that belong to everyone, regardless of race, religion, nationality, or any other status.
On December 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the UDHR. This document was drafted in the aftermath of World War II, when the world was still reeling from the horrors of the Holocaust and other atrocities. The drafters of the UDHR were determined to create a document that would enshrine the basic human rights that all people deserve, and that would help to prevent future atrocities.
The UDHR has had a profound impact on the world in the 75 years since its adoption. It has inspired countless human rights movements and has helped to bring about progress in areas such as civil rights, women’s rights, and children’s rights.
However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that the rights enshrined in the UDHR are enjoyed by everyone, everywhere. Millions of people around the world continue to suffer from human rights abuses, including torture, arbitrary detention, and discrimination.
On Thursday, November 9th 2023, we will join the United Nations and the world to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The world must recommit to upholding and defending the human rights of all people, irrespective of where they are. We must work together to create a world where everyone can live in dignity and freedom.
Photo: United Nations