Why is it important?
- The UDHR is a milestone document that declares every person’s basic rights and freedoms — regardless of nationality, religion, race, gender, or language.
- It promotes equality, justice, and dignity for all.
- Human Rights Day reminds governments and people to protect human rights everywhere.
Key Points
- Adopted: 10 December 1948
- Declared by: United Nations General Assembly
- Purpose: To ensure human dignity, equality, justice, and freedom for all
- Theme: Every year, the UN sets a special theme highlighting global human rights issues
Short History
After the Second World War, the world realized the urgent need to protect fundamental rights. The UDHR became the first global document to outline universal human rights. It includes 30 articles covering rights such as the right to life, freedom of speech, freedom of thought, equality before law, and the right to education.