The evolution of the human
rights movement clearly illustrates humanity's ongoing struggle toward creating
a better world.
Throughout
history, societies have usually been structured with a powerful minority deciding
the course of the lives of the majority. Through the ages, people have worked
to change those systems so that they are fairer for everyone. As the world has
become more global and interconnected, the human rights movement has been able
to spread throughout the world, winning rights for people everywhere. Many victories
have been won, but there is still a long way to go.
After the horrors of World War II, the United Nations was created to provide a
forum for countries to work out their problems peacefully, and to help nations
work together to create a more peaceful, just and sustainable world for all. Protecting
and promoting human rights is one of the foundations of the goals of the United
Nations.
On December
10, 1948, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,
which clearly outlined the basic human rights and freedoms to which all people
should be entitled. This document continues to be a cornerstone in the struggle
for a better world.
Many people and organizations work throughout the year to help protect human rights
- often placing their own lives in danger. Human Rights Day, on December 10, is
an important global occasion to remind us about the importance of protecting human
rights for all.
