Human Rights Day, 10th Dec: Everything You Need to Know About This Global Celebration

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6 months ago

Human Rights Day is celebrated annually on December 10 to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. This landmark document proclaimed the inalienable rights to which every individual is entitled, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, language, political opinion, national or social origin, or any other status.

Members of Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)

The 48 countries that voted in favour of the Declaration are:

Theme for 2024

“Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now”

This year’s theme is a call to acknowledge the importance and relevance of human rights in our everyday lives. We have an opportunity to change perceptions by speaking up against hate speech, correcting misinformation and countering disinformation. This is the time to mobilize action to reinvigorate a global movement for human rights.

Declaration Details

Declaration for Human Rights Day consists of the following:

The preamble sets out the historical and social causes that led to the necessity of drafting the Declaration.
Articles 1–2 establish the basic concepts of dignity, liberty, and equality.
Articles 3–5 establish other individual rights, such as the right to life and the prohibition of slavery and torture.
Articles 6–11 refer to the fundamental legality of human rights with specific remedies cited for their defence when violated.
Articles 12–17 set forth the rights of the individual towards the community, including freedom of movement and residence within each state, the right of property, the right to a nationality and right to asylum.
Articles 18–21 sanction the so-called “constitutional liberties” and spiritual, public, and political freedoms, such as freedom of thought, opinion, expression, religion and conscience, word, peaceful association of the individual, and receiving and imparting information and ideas through any media.
Articles 22–27 sanction an individual’s economic, social and cultural rights, including healthcare. It upholds an expansive right to an adequate standard of living, and makes special mention of care given to those in motherhood or childhood.
Articles 28–30 establish the general means of exercising these rights, the areas in which the rights of the individual cannot be applied, the duty of the individual to society, and the prohibition of the use of rights in contravention of the purposes of the United Nations Organization.

How Human Rights Day Is Celebrated

Global Events: Conferences, debates, art exhibitions, and cultural events are organized by governments, NGOs, and educational institutions.
Advocacy Campaigns: Campaigns highlight issues like poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to education.
Awards: Organizations and individuals who make significant contributions to human rights causes are recognized globally.

Significance of the Day

Promoting Equality: Raises awareness about the importance of equality and human dignity.
Defending Rights: Reinforces the commitment to defend universal rights amidst challenges such as discrimination, inequality, and injustice.
Global Solidarity: Encourages international cooperation to uphold human rights standards.

Conclusion

Human Rights Day, observed on December 10th, serves as a critical reminder of the significance of upholding human rights worldwide. It is a time for individuals and organizations to come together and reaffirm their commitment to promoting and protecting these fundamental rights. Various activities and events are organized globally to celebrate Human Rights Day, including educational seminars, panel discussions, art exhibitions, and advocacy campaigns. This day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about human rights issues, inspire positive change, and foster a collective effort towards creating a more just and inclusive society. Let us unite and take action to ensure the universal respect and fulfilment of human rights for all individuals.