Unlocking the Essence of Humanity: Exploring Basic Human Rights

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Have you ever wondered what makes us human? It’s not just our ability to think, feel, and create. It’s also our fundamental rights that define who we are as individuals and as a society. Eleanor Roosevelt famously said: “Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home—so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world. Yet they are the world of the individual person; the neighbourhood they live in; the school or college they attend; the factory, farm, or office where they work.”

Today, we’ll embark on a journey to understand the essence of basic human rights and explore their significance. All people are free and entitled to the same rights at birth. They should treat one another with a sense of solidarity as they are endowed with rationality and morality. Human rights are a collection of principles that emphasize fairness and equality. As Nelson Mandela profoundly said, “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.”

They are not a recent development; throughout history, all communities have placed a high value on the concepts of rights and obligations. Nations around the globe have been working together since the end of World War II to determine which rights belong to everyone and how to best promote and protect them.

What are Human rights?

Human rights are a collection of principles that emphasize fairness and equality. They respect our right to choose how we live our lives and how to maximize our potential as people.They emphasize leading a life devoid of intimidation, harassment, or discrimination.

Human rights are generally understood to be a collection of fundamental freedoms that people from all over the world have decided to be necessary. These include the freedom from torture and other harsh or inhumane treatment, the right to life, the right to a fair trial, the freedom of speech, the freedom of religion, and the rights to health, education, and a living standard that is adequate.

Why are human rights important?

Tolerance, equality, and respect are values that can lessen conflict in society. The kind of society we wish to live in can be created by putting human rights principles into reality. According to a study conducted by Amnesty International, countries with higher respect for human rights tend to have lower levels of poverty, corruption, and violence. This correlation highlights the positive impact that human rights have on societal well-being.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR): The United Nations General Assembly in 1948 adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a landmark declaration of the fundamental freedoms to which everyone is unquestionably entitled. It emphasizes the equality and value of every human being and serves as a model for the entire world.

Can someone violate my human rights?

Human rights cannot be taken away from a person. No State, group, or individual has any right to engage in any activity or to perform any act aimed at the destruction of any of the rights and freedoms set forth herein according to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Human rights are fundamental entitlements that belong to every individual, regardless of their nationality, race, gender, or any other characteristic.

This is not meant to imply that there aren’t still abuses and violations of human rights. Every day, horrific tales of murder, violence, racism, starvation, unemployment, poverty, abuse, homelessness, and discrimination are reported on television and in newspapers.

The Basic Human Rights:

  1. The Right to Life and Liberty: Everyone has the right to live, to be free, and to feel secure in their own physical being. People must be protected by governments from wilful killing or other cruel or inhumane treatment. According to Amnesty International, over 100 countries have abolished the death penalty for all crimes by 2021.
  2. Right to Freedom of Expression: Everyone has the right to openly express what they think without worrying about being silenced or facing retribution. Journalists worldwide play a vital role in reporting truth and holding power accountable. The 2021 Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index highlighted that journalists in many countries face threats, violence, and even imprisonment for their work.
  3. Right to Equality: Without any kind of discrimination on the basis of race, colour, sex, religion, or other considerations, all people are born free and equal in dignity and rights. According to UN, women worldwide continue to face gender-based discrimination and violence. Approximately 35% of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence at some point in their lives. These statistics emphasize the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the imperative need to protect and promote this fundamental right.

According to the sources analyzed for a recent Pew Research Center survey of 198 countries, women in 56 countries suffered social hostilities, that is, harassment from people or groups, due to clothing that was thought to contravene religious or secular dress norms.

  1. Right to Education: Everyone has the right to a free, readily available education that supports equal opportunity and lifelong learning. As Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
    The Malala Fund, founded by Malala Yousafzai, advocates for girls’ education globally. Through their efforts, they have supported girls in accessing quality education, breaking down barriers that deny them this basic right.
  2. The Right to a Fair Trial: Everyone has the right to a fair, open, and unbiased trial before an impartial, professional tribunal.

Exploring the Human Rights Landscape: Councils, News, and Commemorations

The Human Rights Council is a global body consisting of member states that aims to promote and protect human rights around the world. It addresses various human rights issues, monitors their implementation, and conducts regular reviews of member states’ records. Stay updated with the latest news on human rights by exploring reputable sources that cover topics like civil liberties, equality, justice, and social progress. World Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10th, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Additionally, the Human Rights Commission often refers to national or regional entities responsible for safeguarding and advocating for human rights within their respective jurisdictions.

There is still a striking prevalence of inequality on a global scale.The core principles of the people-centred approach are accountability and human rights. These serve as the moral compass that directs our relationships and helps to create a society that is fair and just. They serve as a reminder of our shared humanity and the obligations we have to one another. Respecting human rights enables us to appreciate diversity, honour each person’s dignity, and provide an environment where equality and justice may flourish. As Desmond Tutu so beautifully put it, “My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” Let’s stand together in support of human rights.

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