Can United Nations Protect Your Human Rights? No Way.
As human rights violations are happening all around the world, the United Nations (UN) is observing Human Rights Day today, 10 December.
It commemorates the day on which, in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
In 1950, the Assembly passed resolution 423 (V), inviting all States and interested organizations to observe 10 December of each year as Human Rights Day.
This year, Human Rights Day calls on everyone to stand up for someone’s rights. The UN admits that “disrespect for basic human rights continues to be wide-spread in all parts of the globe.”
“Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack,” the UN said in a statement.
[ Stop Human Rights Abuses in Kashmir: Rights Groups ]
But these are not only the so-called extremists who abuse human rights, even clean-looking politicians and elected governments are also the major violators.
And the UN – which holds huge resources and a dedicated wing to protect human rights – is only sitting like a mute spectator. It has failed to protect the human rights of people who are suffering in all parts of the world.
“We must reaffirm our common humanity. Wherever we are, we can make a real difference. In the street, in school, at work, in public transport; in the voting booth, on social media,” the UN exhorts.
“It starts with each of us. Step forward and defend the rights of a refugee or migrant, a person with disabilities, an LGBT person, a woman, a child, indigenous peoples, a minority group, or anyone else at risk of discrimination or violence,” the UN said.
Photo courtesy: Amnesty
