By: Nazish Altaf
United Nations General Assembly on December 10th, 1948. This day holds great significance as it marks a global commitment to recognizing and safeguarding the fundamental rights and dignity of every individual.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a milestone document in the history of human rights. It sets out a comprehensive framework of rights and freedoms that should be universally protected for all people, regardless of their race, nationality, gender, religion, or any other status. The significance of this day lies in its promotion of the principles outlined in the UDHR. These principles include the right to life, liberty, and security of person; the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion; the right to education, work, and an adequate standard of living; and protection against discrimination and torture, among others.
By celebrating this day, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding human rights principles and promoting equality, justice, and dignity for all.
It serves as a reminder that everyone deserves to have their rights respected, protected, and fulfilled. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights Day also encourages individuals, governments, and organizations to take action on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) Days are closely intertwined, both aiming to create a better world for all.
The SDGs, adopted by the United Nations in 2015, are a set of 17 global goals designed to address the most urgent social, economic, and environmental challenges facing humanity. They provide a blueprint for sustainable development, focusing on eradicating poverty, reducing inequality, promoting peace and justice, and protecting the planet.
Similarly, the UDHR, adopted in 1948, is a foundational document that establishes the fundamental human rights and freedoms that should be universally protected. It sets out principles such as equality, non-discrimination, and dignity for all individuals.
The connection between these two lies in the recognition that achieving sustainable development and upholding human rights are mutually reinforcing. The SDGs are centered on the principle of leaving no one behind, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, are able to enjoy their rights and live with dignity.
SDGs provide a comprehensive framework for addressing the key areas of human rights outlined in the UDHR. For example, Goal 1 aims to end poverty in all its forms, which aligns with the right to an adequate standard of living. Goal 3 focuses on good health and well-being, linking to the right to health. Goal 5 promotes gender equality, corresponding to the principle of
Non-discrimination and equality. Each SDG intersects with various aspects of human rights, contributing to their realization.
