“To deny people their human rights, is to challenge their very humanity.” – Nelson Mandela

On December 10, 1948, the world witnessed a historic moment—the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). As we approach the 75th anniversary of this groundbreaking global pledge, it is essential to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead. The theme for Human Rights Day 2023, “Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All,” serves as a poignant reminder of the principles enshrined in the UDHR that continue to shape the quest for a more just and humane world.

Seventy-five years ago, the world vowed to never again let the darkness of war and discrimination reign. Representatives from various nations came together to lay the foundation for the protection of fundamental human rights, emphasizing the inherent worth and equality of every person. The UDHR was a beacon of hope, promising a future where every person, regardless of origin, is born free and equal in dignity and rights. It has since become a touchstone for international human rights law, guiding nations in their commitment to creating societies based on justice and respect.

But as we celebrate this historic anniversary, a stark question remains: are we living up to the UDHR’s ideals? Millions are still denied their basic rights, facing injustice, inequality and suffering. From the horrors of war-torn regions to the everyday struggles of marginalized communities, we see the promise of the UDHR being tested and challenged.

Yet, Human Rights Day provides an opportunity to assess how far we have come and pinpoint areas that still require work.  By acknowledging both achievements and shortcomings, we can work collaboratively to build a more inclusive and equitable world.

As we stand at the intersection of history and hope on this day, the echoes of the UDHR resonate with renewed urgency. 75 years ago, this landmark document ignited a beacon of hope, illuminating a world where liberty, equality, security and justice were not just aspirational ideals, but the pillars of a grand future.

Today, we celebrate the strides that we have made in upholding individual freedoms. We stand tall against those who seek to silence difference of opinions, restrict assembly and sever the bonds of association. It is essential that we reaffirm our dedication to defending these liberties that play a critical role in nurturing vibrant communities and ensuring a just and open society.

Equality lies at the heart of the UDHR, advocating for a world where all individuals are treated with fairness and without discrimination. On this Human Rights Day, we should reflect on the strides made in the areas of gender equality, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ rights. However, the road ahead is still long, and it is our collective responsibility to remove the discriminatory barriers that stand in the way of everyone’s access to equal opportunities.

A fundamental component of human rights is justice, which guarantees that everyone has access to just and impartial legal systems. We must advocate for a world where justice prevails, , where the scales of justice are balanced, and where no individual stands above the law.

In order to ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of justice, this commitment extends beyond legal frameworks, addressing economic inequalities.

The 75th anniversary of the UDHR is more than a mere celebration of the past. It is also a call to action for the future. As we look forward, let’s envision a society in which the ideas of freedom, equality, and justice are not simply ideals but realities for every individual. Human Rights Day is a reminder that our collective efforts can shape a kinder and more humane future for generations to come.

Let our voices rise in unison, echoing the timeless words of the UDHR: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” Let us strive to  translate these words into actions, ensuring that the world we create honors the enduring legacy of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Penned By:

Rtr. Tanuri Dissanayake

Editorial Committee Member 23.24