Context:
December 10, 2023 marked the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
Relevance:
GS II: International Relations
Dimensions of the Article:
- Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR): Overview
- Achievements of Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
- Current Situation
Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR): Overview
Background:
- Approved by the UN General Assembly on December 10, 1948, in Paris, the UDHR was a response to the atrocities of World War II.
- It laid the groundwork for the post-war international order, aiming to establish a common understanding of basic rights and freedoms.
Document Structure:
- The relatively concise declaration comprises a preamble and 30 articles, covering a spectrum of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.
- Despite being non-binding, it has been a crucial source of inspiration for the development of international human rights law.
Universal Applicability:
- The rights and freedoms outlined are considered universal, applying to all individuals, irrespective of nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, or any other status.
Key Features:
- Preamble: Emphasizes the inherent dignity and equal, inalienable rights of all members of the human family.
- Articles: The 30 articles cover diverse rights, including life, liberty, security of person, freedom of religion, expression, assembly, work, education, and an adequate standard of living.
- Promotes equality before the law and the right to seek asylum from persecution in other countries.
Achievements of Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR):
- Global Inspiration: Recognized for inspiring over 70 human rights treaties globally and regionally.
- Impact on Movements: Served as a catalyst for the decolonization and anti-apartheid movements.
- Freedom Movements: Inspired freedom fighters worldwide, addressing gender, LGBTIQ+ issues, and fighting against racism.
Current Situation:
- Challenges: Faces challenges amid conflicts like Israel-Hamas, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and internal conflicts in places like Myanmar and Sudan.
- Misuse and Abuse: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledges the UDHR’s misuse and abuse for political gain.
- Relevance and Recognition: Despite challenges, Amnesty International asserts that the UDHR remains relevant, showcasing a global vision for human rights. The world should acknowledge its successes and learn from its failures.
-Source: Indian Express
