Human rights are the fundamental freedoms and entitlements that belong to all people, irrespective of who they are or where they are from. They are based on shared values like dignity, fairness, equality and independence. Although everyone has them, they can sometimes be restricted for reasons of national security or in the interests of public safety. In this context, we need laws that protect our basic rights and ensure people are treated fairly and with respect.
The United Nations defines and protects a set of internationally recognised rights, which are legally binding on all countries. These rights are based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds and proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. It is the most widely-translated document in the world and has influenced many national laws.
A key part of the United Nations human rights work is ensuring that those who believe their rights are being violated have an opportunity to have their case heard in a court of law. This can include a tribunal or an independent commission of inquiry established by the Human Rights Council.
Getting involved with this work can be a challenging but rewarding way to fight for justice and dignity. It’s also a great way to meet fellow activists from around the world and share ideas. Read more about how to join this community in our eBook “Launching Your Career in Human Rights“.
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