The origins of Human Rights Day can be traced back to 1948 when the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The UDHR is a document that outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms that are entitled to all human beings, regardless of their race, religion, gender, or other factors.
It includes a range of rights, such as the right to life, liberty, and security of person; the right to education; and the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.
Theme of Human Rights Day 2022
The Theme of Human Rights Day 2022 is Dignity, Freedom & Justice for All.
Why December 10 was chosen as Human Rights Day
After the UDHR was adopted, December 10th was chosen as Human Rights Day to commemorate the document and to celebrate the progress that had been made in the fight for human rights. The day is also a reminder of the work that still needs to be done in order to ensure that these rights are protected and upheld around the world.
Objectives of Human Rights Day
In the years since its inception, Human Rights Day has become an important annual event for individuals and organizations around the world. On this day, people come together to raise awareness about human rights issues and to take action to support the cause. This can take the form of events, such as marches and rallies, or more informal activities, such as sharing information about human rights on social media.
In addition to the events and activities that take place on Human Rights Day, many organizations also use this day to recognize and honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the fight for human rights. These individuals may be activists, lawyers, or other individuals who have dedicated their lives to promoting and protecting human rights.
The declaration has been an invaluable tool in combating inequality and discrimination around the world. It has served as a foundation for national constitutions, laws, and policies that protect basic freedoms such as freedom from torture, slavery, and arbitrary detention; equality before the law; freedom of expression; right to education; right to health care and more.
Sadly, however, despite these advances, many people continue to suffer gross violations of their human rights every day – with women particularly vulnerable due to gender-based discrimination or violence.
It is therefore vital that we use this day not only to reflect on our progress but also to redouble our efforts toward ensuring everyone can enjoy their fundamental human rights without fear of persecution or prejudice.
As citizens, we can all play our part by speaking up against injustice wherever it occurs – whether at home or abroad -and supporting civil society organizations that are working hard every day for change. We can also pledge our support for governments implementing robust measures aimed at protecting vulnerable groups such as refugees or those living with disabilities through legislation like UNCRPD (United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities).
At its heart, Human Rights Day is about celebrating diversity, respecting each other’s differences no matter how small they may be, and standing together in solidarity against hate speech, discrimination & intolerance. So let us use this special occasion both renewing our commitment to safeguarding dignity & justice everywhere.
