UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has called upon world leaders to prioritize the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) as a guiding framework to not only protect human rights but also to avert conflicts, combat animosity, rebuild trust, and create a sustainable future for all. In a compelling video message during a high-level event commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Declaration, Mr. Guterres emphasized the significant role of this landmark document, portraying it as a “beacon of hope” and a blueprint for fundamental freedoms. He implored every Member State to seize this moment, alongside the upcoming Summit of the Future, to fortify their dedication to the values and principles espoused in the Universal Declaration.

The two-day event in Geneva, scheduled for 11th and 12th December, will spotlight critical pledging sessions where nations will announce tangible commitments to advance human rights protection. The program includes segments such as ‘Voices in Defence of Human Rights’, featuring participants sharing their impactful testimonies and perspectives on the UDHR’s influence. Additionally, panel discussions with experts will deliberate on the challenges and the way forward in reinforcing the universality and indivisibility of human rights, as well as strengthening the overall human rights system. Furthermore, a leaders’ segment with Heads of State will take place, followed by round table discussions covering peace and security, digital technologies, climate and the environment, and development and the economy.

Acknowledging both progress and setbacks, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, acknowledged that while the Universal Declaration has spurred transformative societal progress worldwide, it has also borne witness to “numerous failures to uphold human rights”. His thoughts turned to the millions of people enduring profound suffering in various regions, including the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Sudan, Ukraine, Myanmar, among other places. Mr. Türk highlighted the diverse roots of the UDHR, encompassing global responses to the Holocaust, the Haitian revolution, African values of interdependence and cooperation, as well as the Islamic principle of zakat, signifying compassionate sharing, among others.

Characterizing the Declaration as a guide for addressing the world’s most pressing challenges, the UN rights chief emphasized that its anniversary serves as a clarion call to collaborate and base all decisions “on the intrinsic and equal value of every human life.”

In commemoration of Human Rights Day, the President of the UN General Assembly, Dennis Francis, and the President of the Economic and Social Council, Paula Narváez, emphasized the enduring significance of the Universal Declaration. Mr. Francis underscored the unifying nature of human rights, affirming the commitment to the principles enshrined in it. Meanwhile, Ms. Narváez invoked the words of Nelson Mandela, emphasizing the centrality of humanity in all actions, and the collective responsibility to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights for all.

Human Rights Day, observed annually on 10th December, marks the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the UN General Assembly in 1948. The Assembly proclaimed this document as a “common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations”, urging individuals and societies to strive towards its universal and effective recognition and observance through progressive measures, both at national and international levels.

While the UDHR is not a binding document, it has inspired the creation of over 60 human rights instruments, collectively establishing an international standard of human rights. This profound Declaration guarantees the rights and freedoms of every individual without discrimination based on nationality, place of residence, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion, language, or any other status.

As the world commemorates this momentous occasion, it serves as a reminder of the collective duty to uphold human rights and strive for a fair and just world for all.