A human right is something that all people are entitled to simply because they are human. They are not a privilege (something that can be given away at someone else’s whim) but a necessary condition for people to live with dignity. They are a foundation on which we build our relationships with each other and with the planet.
Most people know about some of their rights – things like the right to food and a home to live in, or the right to freedom of speech and expression. But there are many more human rights than just these – for example, the right to a clean environment and quality education or to a fair trial when facing criminal charges.
The idea of human rights has a long history. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, drafted by representatives from different legal and cultural backgrounds, was a landmark document in 1948. It was a response to the horrors of World War II and the grinding poverty of much of humanity.
Since that time, the United Nations has passed many binding treaties and resolutions on the subject of human rights and set up tribunals to prosecute those who commit egregious violations. These efforts are a testament to the power of ideas and the importance of working together for peace.
But human rights advocacy is not easy. It requires a long-term commitment and the help of others. Group activism is important because it gives activists the support and strength to continue their work even when they face obstacles, such as arrest or financial losses. Accountability is also crucial to the human rights movement – if those who violate human rights don’t fear punishment, they will be more likely to commit them again in the future.
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