Human Rights Day is observed globally on 10 December. The day commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This year’s theme is “Our Everyday Essentials“.
It aims to show how human rights shape our daily lives. The United Nations campaign sought to reaffirm the UDHR’s core values, such equality, justice, freedom, and dignity. The campaign highlights that rights are not just abstract concepts. They are present in simple, everyday actions and necessities.
UN Human Rights Chief, Volker Türk, described human rights as a compass guiding the world through uncertain and turbulent times. The campaign connects these principles to daily experiences. This includes having food, clean water, and feeling safe. It also includes the freedom to read the news or spend time with family.
These essentials are enshrined in the UDHR. However, they are not a reality for everyone, everywhere. In South Africa, poor service delivery is a major concern.
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Service delivery failures violate rights
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) considers poor delivery of basic services a serious rights violation. The state’s failure to provide water, sanitation, and education strips citizens of their dignity.
Conflicts are raging and inequalities are on the rise. The climate emergency is also a growing concern. Türk has called for more solidarity to address these challenges.
He emphasised that human rights are a shared project. When the rights of one group are denied, it harms everyone. The campaign encourages people to share what is essential to them using the hashtag #OurEverydayRights on social media.
The UDHR was proclaimed in Paris on 10 December 1948. It serves as a global blueprint for laws and policies. Available in 577 languages, it is the most translated document in the world. The declaration sets a common standard for all nations.
It enshrines the inalienable rights everyone is entitled to. This is regardless of race, sex, religion, or other status. The ongoing global push is for every person, everywhere, to live in dignity. This is the enduring promise of human rights.
Image via PCMA.
