12 Dec 2023 Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
This article covers “Daily Current Affairs” and the topic details “ Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)”. This topic has relevance in the Social Justice section of the UPSC CSE exam.
GS 2: Social Justice
Why in the news?
The 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was observed on December 10, 2023. The UDHR stands as a seminal document that safeguards human rights and fundamental freedoms for every individual.
Background:
In a historic moment on December 10, 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) gained approval from the UN General Assembly during a pivotal meeting in Paris. This landmark document served as a foundational element in shaping the post-World War II international order, responding to the atrocities of the war and seeking to establish a shared understanding of the fundamental rights and freedoms inherent to all individuals.
About:
The UDHR, a concise document comprising a preamble and 30 articles, delineates a comprehensive array of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. These rights, deemed universal, extend to all people, irrespective of nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, or any other status. While not a legally binding treaty, the declaration has profoundly influenced the development of international human rights law, acting as a wellspring of inspiration.
Features:
- Preamble:
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- Sets forth the rationale behind the declaration, emphasizing the inherent dignity and equal, inalienable rights of all members of the human family.
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- Articles:
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- Encompasses 30 articles articulating a broad spectrum of rights, including the right to life, liberty, and security, freedom of religion, expression, and assembly, the right to work and education, and the right to an adequate standard of living.
- Asserts equality before the law and the right to seek asylum from persecution in other countries.
Achievements of UDHR:
- Acknowledged for inspiring over 70 global and regional human rights treaties.
- Catalyst for the decolonization movement, anti-apartheid movement, and various freedom struggles worldwide, addressing issues such as gender, LGBTIQ+ rights, and racism.
Current Situation:
- Amidst challenges to human rights in conflicts such as Israel-Hamas, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and internal conflicts in Myanmar and Sudan.
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres notes instances of misuse and abuse of the declaration for political gain but emphasizes its continued relevance.
- Amnesty International asserts that despite being ignored or exploited, the UDHR remains a testament to the possibility and realization of a global vision for human rights.
Conclusion:
The 75th anniversary of the UDHR underscores its enduring significance, with the document continuing to shape discussions on human rights globally. While challenges persist, its successes and failures serve as lessons for the world to honor its principles and strive for a more just and equitable future.
SOURCE:Human Rights Day 2023 Theme and Overview | Viral News, Times Now (timesnownews.com)
Download Yojna daily current affairs eng med 12th Dec 2023
Q.1 With reference to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), consider the following statements:
- It was signed in the preceding year of world war II.
- Right to seek asylum is one of the rights under UDHR.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
ANSWER: B
Q.2 Discuss the enduring significance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) 75 years since its adoption. Analyze its impact on shaping the global discourse on human rights, addressing challenges, and influencing international relations.
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