Every year on the 10th of December, the world commemorates the approval of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the UN General Assembly through the observance of Human Rights Day. This observation dates back to the year 1948 and this year, 2023, we mark the 75th anniversary of the UDHR. The theme for this year’s Human Rights Day is “Freedom, Equality and Justice for All.”
Understanding Human Rights
Human Rights are rights that belong to every human being. These rights are universal, irrespective of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion or any other status one might hold. They serve as a declaration of every individual’s right to life and liberty, protection from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, right to work and education among others.
The late Nelson Mandela once declared, “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” Article 1 of Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) further reiterates this, stating that “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” Article 2 goes on to state that everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set in the declaration without any form of distinction.
In addition, Articles 12 to 35 of the Indian Constitution provide for various rights such as the Right to Equality, Right to Freedom, Right Against Exploitation, Right to Freedom of Religion, Cultural & Educational Rights, and Right to Constitutional Remedies.
The Significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
The UDHR comprises 30 rights and freedoms ranging from civil and political rights to economic, social and cultural rights. Despite not being a legally binding treaty, it serves a crucial function as it sets the standard with regards to human rights.
India played a crucial role in the drafting of this document. UDHR, in conjunction with the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, form the International Bill of Human Rights. The declaration has had a profound impact globally, influencing various movements such as decolonization, anti-apartheid, and freedom struggles worldwide.
Achievements of the UDHR
The UDHR, despite its non-binding status, has managed to have a global impact due to its principles being adopted into numerous countries’ legal frameworks. It has also catalyzed the creation of over 70 human rights treaties globally.
Regardless of criticisms regarding its universal applicability, the UDHR continues to be relevant. Its universal standard is reaffirmed by agreements building on the 1948 declaration, like the Vienna Declaration and Program of Action in 1993.
Related UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
One of the previous year questions (2020) in the UPSC Civil Services Examination regarding the UDHR asked: “Other than the Fundamental Rights, which of the following parts of the Constitution of India reflect/reflects the principles and provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)?” Options included the Preamble, Directive Principles of State Policy, and Fundamental Duties. The correct answer was all three options.
Last Modified: February 22, 2024