Human Rights Day comes around each year, reminding people that dignity, fairness, and freedom are not abstract ideals but expectations every person should enjoy. As the world confronts growing political tensions, economic strain, and a seeming breakdown in trust among people, the day reflects on why human rights continue to matter and shape ordinary life.
When is Human Rights Day celebrated?
10 December marks Human Rights Day. This date commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, an unprecedented achievement that outlined a common vision for rights to which all human beings are entitled.
History of Human Rights Day
The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in 1948, following the devastation brought about by the Second World War. It was proclaimed as a common standard for all societies, and in 1950, the UN encouraged countries to observe 10 December as Human Rights Day.
Significance of Human Rights Day
The day serves as an international checkpoint to remind governments and societies to protect freedoms, challenge discrimination, and stand in solidarity with the persons whose rights are violated. It is also important for updating public commitment to fairness, equality, and justice. For many, it is a wake-up call to awareness and involvement since rights survive only when defended by people themselves.
Theme for Human Rights Day 2025: “Our Everyday Essentials”
The 2025 theme explores and highlights the relationship between human rights and everyday life. Rather than framing rights as abstract legal principles, this campaign emphasizes daily life basics in security, shelter, food, health care, participation and dignity. This is meant to make people see rights not as lofty statements but practical foundations of a safe and hopeful life.
Everyday Human Rights Essentials
- Safe living conditions and protection against violence
- Access to food, clean water, and adequate housing
- Education without discrimination
- Fair work, just pay, safe workplaces
- Equality, irrespective of identity or background.
- Freedom of expression, association, and participation
- Privacy and respect for family life, including online
- How Individuals Can Uphold Everyday Human Rights
- Treat others with equity and challenge harmful behavior
- Support community groups in assisting vulnerable people
- Share information without spreading online hate
- Engage in public issues by voting or advocating
- Encourage inclusive policies at workplaces and schools.
- Speak up in cases of discrimination or abuse
Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions
| Constitutional Provision | Description |
|---|---|
| Preamble | Declares India a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic committed to justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. |
| Fundamental Rights (Arts. 12–35) | Guarantees equality before law, free speech, protection from discrimination and the right to life and liberty. |
| Directive Principles (Part IV, Arts. 38–51) | Guides the state to promote social and economic justice, including fair working conditions and a decent standard of living. |
| Universal Adult Franchise (Arts. 325, 326) | Ensures voting rights for all adult citizens. |
| Safeguards for Minorities (Arts. 244, 244A) | Provides protections for linguistic, tribal and religious minorities. |
Human Rights Day Quotes
- “Activism works. So what I’m telling you to do now is act. Because no one is too small to make a difference.”-Greta Thunberg
- “The rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened.” – John F. Kennedy
- “To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.” – Nelson Mandela
- “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” – Alice Walker
- “It means a great deal to those who are oppressed to know that they are not alone.” – Desmond Tutu
- “Peace can only last where human rights are respected.” – 14th Dalai Lama
- “Human rights are for all of us, all the time.” – Ban Ki-moon
- “Joy is found when you focus on human dignity and human values.” – Amit Ray
- “Wherever men and women are persecuted, that place must become the center of the universe.” – Elie Wiesel
- “All children should be taught to love and trust their own person.”-Asa Don Brown
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Disclaimer: This article offers general information on Human Rights Day and does not replace legal guidance or expert human rights advice.
