International Day for Human Rights
November 29th, 2012
December 10, 2012 is International Human Rights Day. On this day, 64 years ago, member nations of the newly formed United Nations signed into International Law the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
This doctrine of human rights adopted by the United Nations has its antecedents in Catholic Social Teaching – in the basic concept of human dignity.
What does the Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantee?
That “All People…”
Are born free and should all be treated in the same way.
Are equal despite difference in race, sex, language, etc.
Have the right to life and to live in freedom and safety.
Should be free from slavery .
Should not be subjected to torture .
Have the right to be recognized before the law .
Have the right to be treated equally before the law .
Have the right to ask for legal help when their rights are not respected.
Have the right to not be imprisoned unjustly.
Have the right to a fair trial.
Have the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Have the right to privacy.
Have the right to travel within and to and from their own country.
Have the right to political asylum.
Have the right to a nationality.
Have the right to marry.
Have the right to own property.
Have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.
Have the right to freedom of opinion and expression.
Have the right to meet with others.
Have the right to take part in government matters and to vote.
Have the right to social security (i.e., to have basic needs met).
Have the right to work and to join a trade union.
Have the right to rest and leisure.
Have the right to an adequate standard of living and medical help.
Have the right to an education.
Have the right to take part in their community’s cultural life.
Are entitled to a social and international order that can provide these rights.
Must respect the rights of others.
Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
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Posted in: Global, Homepage News, Human Dignity, Issues, Members, News, Resources, United Nations
Related keywords: human rights, United Nations, universal declaration of human rights
