what is the purpose of human rights day essay

What is Human Rights Day and Why We Celebrate on March 21

Mar 15, 2020 | History and Politics

Each year on March 21st, South Africa celebrates Human Rights Day to commemorate the Sharpeville massacre of 1960. In honouring the fight for a democratic South Africa, Human Rights Day pays homage to all of those who fought and lost their lives in the struggle for freedom.

The History of Human Rights Day 

Human Rights Day is one of the most important public holidays in South Africa. When South Africa held its first democratic election in 1994, the newly elected president, Nelson Mandela, declared the 21st of March as Human Rights Day. 

The Sharpeville Massacre is a tragedy that marked a turning point for the future of South Africa. Human Rights Day shines a light on the ordinary people who fought for their fundamental rights and bravely opposed the apartheid regime. The 21st of March is a reminder for South Africans to rise in unison to proclaim their human rights continuously.

The ‘Dompas’, Pass Laws and the Sharpeville Massacre

When the Nationalist Party came into power in South Africa in 1948, the government legalised segregation by enforcing a series of laws that gave them control over the movement of people of colour. After implementing the Native Laws Amendment Act of 1952, no black person could leave a rural area for an urban one without a permit or “pass” from local authorities.

The pass included a photograph, details of place of origin, employment record and encounters with the police. Colloquially, the pass book was nicknamed the “dompas” which translates literally to “dumb pass” in Afrikaans.  

On the 21st March 1960, the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) organised a peaceful campaign for women, men and children to gather in Sharpeville without their passes and present themselves for arrest.

Approximately 10 000 people gathered outside of a police station in the Sharpeville township to protest against the pass laws. Despite the protest being non-violent, police opened fire on the crowd, killing 69 people and injuring an additional 180 victims, the majority of which were shot in the back as they attempted to flee the shooting.

A few days later, a State of Emergency was declared by the Apartheid government, and both the PAC and African National Congress (ANC) were banned. The Sharpeville massacre provoked protest action to spread throughout the country but was met with similar violent suppression. During this time, thousands of ordinary people were arrested and injured by police, but the anti-apartheid movement continued underground.

This tragedy would go down in history as the Sharpeville Massacre. It would late be commemorated annually on the 21st of March as Human Rights Day.

Learn about South Africa’s delicate past by visiting fascinating museums, monuments, memorials and historical sites around the country view our selection of History and Politics Tours and contact us to book.

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The Universal Declaration shows the way to common values and approaches that can help resolve tensions and create the security and stability our world craves." UN Secretary-General António Guterres

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights turns 75

10 December 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of one of the world's most groundbreaking global pledges: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights  (UDHR). This landmark document enshrines the inalienable rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being - regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.

The Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10 December 1948 and sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected.  

Available in more than 500 languages, it is the most translated document in the world.

A year-long initiative focusing on universality, progress and engagement, will culminate in a high-level event in December 2023, which will announce global pledges and ideas for a vision for the future of human rights.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a milestone document in the history of human rights.

2023 Theme: Freedom, Equality and Justice for All

In the decades since the  adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights  (UDHR) in 1948, human rights have become more recognised and more guaranteed across the globe. The UDHR has since served as the foundation for an expanding system of human rights protection that today focuses also on vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples and migrants.

However, the promise of the UDHR, of dignity and equality in rights, has been under a sustained assault in recent years. As the world faces challenges new and ongoing – pandemics, conflicts, exploding inequalities, morally bankrupt global financial system, racism, climate change – the values, and rights enshrined in the UDHR provide guideposts for our collective actions that do not leave anyone behind.

The year-long Human Rights 75 initiative seeks to shift the needle of understanding and action towards greater knowledge of the universality of the UDHR and the activism associated with it.

The UDHR enshrines the rights of all human beings.

From the right to education to equal pay, UDHR established for the first time the indivisible and inalienable rights of all humanity.

As a “common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations”, the UDHR is a global blueprint for international, national, and local laws and policies and a bedrock of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development.

The 2030 Agenda for sustainable development explicitly recognizes it is grounded in UDHR and has to be implemented in a manner that realizes human rights.

The UDHR has inspired many struggles for stronger human rights protection and helped them to be more recognized.

In the (nearly) 75 years since the proclamation of the UDHR, human rights have advanced. However, progress does not mean the fight for rights and equality ever ends. 

Whenever and wherever humanity's values are abandoned, we all are at greater risk. The solutions to today’s greatest crises are rooted in human rights.

Rights violations reverberate across borders and across generations. These can be, must be, collectively overcome.

We need to stand up for our rights and those of others.

The UDHR calls upon everybody to stand up for human rights. We all have a role to play.

We need an economy that invests in human rights and works for everyone.

We need to renew the social contract between Governments and their people and within societies, so as to rebuild trust and embrace a shared and comprehensive vision of human rights on the road to a just and sustainable development.

• 75th anniversary website
• 75th anniversary resources
• 75th anniversary key messages

Youth and Human Rights 75 initiative

Given that young people face particular challenges in exercising their rights, while often being at the forefront of human rights activism, youth engagement is a key component of the initiative. To ensure such engagement, OHCHR established a Youth Advisory Group, which participates in the design, implementation and follow-up of Human Rights 75 activities. Find out more about these 12 remarkable young people

UN digital ambassador Elyx animates the UDHR

To mark the 75th anniversary of the UDHR in December 2023, the United Nations has partnered once again with French digital artist YAK (Yacine Ait Kaci) – whose illustrated character Elyx is the first digital ambassador of the United Nations – on an animated version of the 30 Articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

UN Exhibits on Human Rights

Explore the works of talented amateur and professional photographers from exhibitions for the general public that have been showcased over the years at United Nations Headquarters. Some of the human rights topics covered are indigenous peoples' rights, the Nazi genocide of the Roma and Sinti, sexual violence in conflict, and the plight of the Palestinian people.

Why do we mark International Days?

International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. The existence of international days predates the establishment of the United Nations, but the UN has embraced them as a powerful advocacy tool. We also mark other UN observances .

Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December – the day on which the United Nations General Assembly adopted, in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights empowers us all. The principles enshrined in the Declaration are as relevant today as they were in 1948. We need to stand up for our own rights and those of others. We can take action in our own daily lives, to uphold the rights that protect us all and thereby promote the kinship of all human beings.

In December 1948, UNESCO was the first United Nations agency to place the Universal Declaration at the heart of all its action, to promote it across the world through education and the media.

In a world where conflicts and crises are multiplying, Human Rights Day – 10 December – affords us the opportunity to reaffirm our unwavering dedication to this vision of a common humanity, one which is rooted in shared values. For when basic rights are threatened, all our societies are endangered. This is why UNESCO has devoted itself to protecting and bolstering human rights and human dignity for 75 years.

#StandUp4HumanRights #ItStartsWithMe

Human rights gain new meaning when they become a reality in the daily life of every single person in the world. Human rights are at the core of UNESCO’s mission in all its fields of competence – education, science, culture and communication

What UNESCO does

for just, inclusive, resilient and democratic societies

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

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Human Rights Day: A Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide

History and overview.

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Human Rights Day originated in 1950 when the United Nations General Assembly invited all nations to observe December 10 as Human Rights Day through resolution 423(V) [PDF] External .

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was drafted as “a common standard of achievement for all peoples and nations” and was the first universal statement that all human beings have certain inherent rights that are inalienable. Prior to its adoption, human rights had been expressed in other international and domestic instruments, such as the Charter of the United Nations External and the United States Bill of Rights , but there was no dedicated statement about human rights at the international level.

The UDHR consists of a preamble and thirty articles covering such human rights as freedom of expression, assembly, movement, and religion. It sets out the basic principle of equality and non-discrimination in terms of the enjoyment of human rights, and affirms that everyone shall be free from slavery, torture, and arbitrary arrest or detention. Article 1 describes the philosophy on which the UDHR is based. It reads:

All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.

Although it is not a binding document, the UDHR can be seen as contributing to the understanding, implementation, and development of international human rights law. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights states [PDF] External that the UDHR “has set the direction for all subsequent work in the field of human rights and has provided the basic philosophy for many legally binding international instruments designed to protect the rights and freedoms which it proclaims.” There have been a number of international covenants on different aspects of human rights since the adoption of the UDHR. While not all governments have become parties to all of these treaties, all United Nations (UN) member countries have accepted the UDHR. The UDHR has also inspired some of the wording of constitutions of different countries around the world.

The UDHR has now been translated External into 530 languages External and dialects and holds the Guinness World Record External as being the most translated document in the world.

The 70th anniversary of the UDHR was celebrated on Human Rights Day 2018 External . In honor of this anniversary, the UN launched the campaign "Stand Up For Human Rights" External . Past observances External have had a range of themes, including human rights education, torture, and fighting poverty. The UN holds various events and meetings on Human Rights Day and has established the Human Rights Prize External to recognize “outstanding achievements in the field of human rights.” The day is also observed by various government and non-government organizations through statements, events, and publications, including the United States where presidents have issued proclamations for Human Rights Day for more than 60 years. The 2021 Human Rights Day External theme "All Human, All Equal" relates to article 1 of the UDHR. It is meant to further the goals of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda External and the Shared Framework on Leaving No One Behind [PDF] External .

Resources Referenced

• Resolution 423(V) [PDF] External (United Nations)
• Charter of the United Nations External (United Nations)
• Bill of Rights (The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration)
• Fact Sheet No.2 (Rev.1), The International Bill of Human Rights [PDF] External (United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights)
• About the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Translation Project External (United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights)
• Search by Translation External (United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights)
• New record: Translations of Universal Declaration of Human Rights pass 500 External (United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights)
• Human Rights Day 2018 External (United Nations)
• Human Rights Day: Latest and past observances of Human Rights Day External (United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights)
• Human Rights Day 2003: United Nations Prize in the Field of Human Rights External (United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights)
• 2021 Human Rights Day External (United Nations)
• 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda External (United Nations)
• Leaving No One Behind: Equality and Non-Discrimination at the Heart of Sustainable Development [PDF] External (United Nations System Chief Executives Board for Coordination )
• Human Rights Day External (United Nations)
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• Next: Executive Branch Documents >>
• Last Updated: Apr 26, 2024 12:11 PM
• URL: https://guides.loc.gov/human-rights-day

Human Rights Day Essay

Human rights are described as fundamental rights, freedom and entitlements that everyone is entitled to. They are set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, widely accepted and ratified by the international community. Reading BYJU’S Human Rights Day essay allows the little ones to understand the importance of knowing human rights.

Human Rights Day is an international day of importance, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Every year on December 10, the United Nations General Assembly observes the day to remember and draw people’s attention to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Human rights are the main focus of the United Nations, and there is no way to ensure world peace without them. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a document that spells out a person’s rights to life, liberty, and security. These rights ensure freedom from discrimination in all aspects of life.

Human Rights are the basic rights we have been given to ensure our safety and protection. They are universal, which means they apply to everyone without exception, regardless of race, sex, gender, age or nationality.

Importance of Human Rights

Now, let us read about the importance of human rights by referring to BYJU’S Human Rights Day essay in English. Human rights are necessary because they protect people from the abuse of power and make sure that everyone has the same opportunities. Human rights also help improve society and people of different backgrounds, especially those belonging to vulnerable sections.

Human rights are essential for all countries which signed the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. These rights cover fundamental liberties such as freedom of speech , expression, religion, and press. They also provide people with the right to life, freedom, security and safety.

Human rights are essential in today’s world. Every person has an inherent right to life, liberty, and security. These rights prevent people from being killed, enslaved, abused, or persecuted.

Why is Human Rights Day Celebrated?

After learning the importance of human rights, let us now understand why celebrating Human Rights Day is important by referring to a short essay on Human Rights Day. Human Rights Day is celebrated to remind people of their basic rights as humans. It is also a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to protect these rights.

Human Rights Day makes it easy for people to remember the importance of human rights. It’s a day that recognises the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for the rights that we all enjoy now.

It is also a time to reflect on how far we have come as humans and remind ourselves of everyone’s human rights. The day is celebrated across the globe to raise awareness of human rights, commemorate those who have died, and educate everyone on the importance of human rights.

National Human Rights Commission of India

India’s National Human Rights Commission is a statutory body established in October 1993. It is an establishment set up to protect human rights throughout incredible India . BYJU’S Human Rights Day essay explains the functions of the National Human Rights Commission in simple words.

The commission has its headquarters in New Delhi and is currently headed by the former judge of the Supreme Court, Justice Arun Kumar Mishra.

The National Human Rights Commission’s functions are to monitor and review human rights violations and take appropriate remedial measures. It is also empowered to investigate complaints and conduct inquiries into related matters.

To conclude, human rights are a universal set of social, civil and political standards that are intended to ensure basic standards of life for all human beings. Being aware of human rights is an important aspect of everyone’s lives. For more stories , worksheets , poems etc., visit BYJU’S website.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is human rights day celebrated.

Human Rights Day is celebrated on December 10 every year.

What are the functions of the Human Rights Commission in India?

The National Human Rights Commission was created to investigate human rights violations and prevent any such violations in the country. It also investigates complaints and conducts inquiries on matters of human rights.

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What is the purpose of human rights day essay

Let’s explore the importance of Human Rights Day in South Afric a. As your assignment guider, I’ll help you structure your essay on “What Is The Purpose Of Human Rights Day” to get top marks in the South African curriculum. Remember, clear, connected paragraphs and a well-organised argument are key.

Understanding the question: What is the purpose of human rights day essay?

When a question asks a student to write an essay on the purpose of human right day (What is the purpose of human rights day essay), a student is expected to provide a structured and well-organised piece of writing that presents and supports a main idea or a position.

Structure of What is the purpose of human rights day essay?

The essay should have an introduction that introduces the topic and states the position or a side of the writer, body paragraphs that support the thesis or position with evidence and examples based on their country of South Africa, and a conclusion that summarises the main points and restates the position (good/bad). For higher marks, the essay should demonstrate critical thinking, a paragraph with history or background of the topic, and all should be written with clarity and simple english for better understanding.

Introduction

• Briefly introduce Human Rights Day and its importance worldwide and in South Africa.
• State your thesis outlining the main purpose of your essay.

Historical Background

• Talk about the history of human rights abuses in South Africa, especially during apartheid.
• Explain how the international community and South African activists advocated for human rights.

Establishment of Human Rights Day

• Explain how and when Human Rights Day started in South Africa.
• Discuss the importance of December 10th, the day the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations.

Purpose of Human Rights Day

• Discuss the importance of raising awareness about human rights.
• Highlight how Human Rights Day promotes unity, understanding, and respect among different communities in South Africa.
• Explain how Human Rights Day reminds us of the past and encourages us to act for the future.
• Summarise the main points of your essay.
• Reinforce the importance of Human Rights Day in South Africa’s history and its ongoing relevance today.

Example Essay on “What is the purpose of human rights day essay”

Introduction Human Rights Day is an important public holiday in South Africa, observed every year on March 21st. It reminds us of the sacrifices made during the struggle for democracy. In this essay, we’ll look at the history, the tragic event that led to its creation, and why Human Rights Day is still important today.

The Sharpeville Massacre: A Turning Point In 1960, the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) organised a peaceful protest in Sharpeville. People gathered without their mandatory passes, which were part of the apartheid system controlling people of colour. The aim was to challenge this unfair system.

However, the peaceful protest turned into a tragedy. South African police opened fire on the crowd, killing 69 people and injuring 180 others. Most victims were shot in the back as they tried to run from the bullets. This terrible event became known as the Sharpeville Massacre.

The Birth of Human Rights Day After this tragedy, the apartheid government declared a State of Emergency and banned the PAC and the African National Congress (ANC). But people kept fighting for their rights, even when faced with violence.

When South Africa had its first democratic election in 1994, Nelson Mandela, the newly elected president, made March 21st Human Rights Day. This date shows South Africa’s commitment to human rights and the fight for freedom.

Honouring the Heroes Human Rights Day remembers those who stood up against injustice. It honours the brave people who faced police brutality, imprisonment, and even death. They fought for a South Africa where everyone could have dignity, equality, and freedom.

The Ongoing Struggle Human Rights Day isn’t just about history; it’s a call to action. It reminds us that the fight for justice and equality goes on. As we remember this day, we must think about our responsibilities as citizens and stand up for the rights of everyone, no matter their race, gender, or background.

Conclusion In conclusion, Human Rights Day shows the strength and resilience of the South African people. It reminds us that freedom is precious and we must protect it for future generations. Let’s honour those who sacrificed so much for our rights and keep fighting for a fair and equal society.

Marking Guidelines for “What is the purpose of human rights day essay”

• Introduction of Human Rights Day | 3 marks
• Importance of Human Rights Day in South Africa | 4 marks
• Thesis statement | 3 marks Historical Background | 20 marks
• Discussion of human rights violations during apartheid | 7 marks
• Role of international community and South African activists | 8 marks
• Clarity and relevance of historical context | 5 marks Establishment of Human Rights Day | 20 marks
• Explanation of the Sharpeville massacre and its significance | 8 marks
• Adoption of Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the UN | 6 marks
• Significance of December 10th | 6 marks Purpose of Human Rights Day | 30 marks
• Importance of raising awareness about human rights | 8 marks
• Role of Human Rights Day in promoting unity and understanding | 10 marks
• Reminder of the past and a call to action for the future | 8 marks
• Clarity and coherence in explaining the purpose | 4 marks Conclusion | 10 marks
• Summary of main points | 4 marks
• Reinforcement of the importance of Human Rights Day | 3 marks
• Clarity and coherence in conclusion | 3 marks Structure and Organisation | 10 marks
• Logical flow and coherence | 5 marks
• Clear and concise language | 3 marks
• Proper essay structure | 2 marks Total Marks | 100 marks

Tips for Scoring High Marks on What is the purpose of human rights day essay

• Make sure your “What is the purpose of human rights day essay” is well-structured with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Use relevant examples and evidence to support your arguments.
• Use clear and concise language, and proofread your essay to correct any grammatical or spelling mistakes.
• Keep a logical flow and coherence throughout the essay.

Shama Nathoo

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Commissioner for Human Rights

Universal declaration of Human Rights

Human Rights Day is observed by the international community every year on 10 December. It commemorates the day in 1948 the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights .

Here are the 10 first articles grounding our Rights and Freedom:

• Article 1: All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights
• Article 2: Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status
• Article 3: Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person
• Article 4: No one shall be held in slavery or servitude
• Article 5: No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment
• Article 6: Everyone has the right to recognition everywhere as a person before the law
• Article 7: All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to equal protection of the law
• Article 8: Everyone has the right to an effective remedy by the competent national tribunals for acts violating the fundamental rights granted him by the constitution or by law
• Article 9: No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile
• Article 10: Everyone is entitled in full equality to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal, in the determination of his rights and obligations and of any criminal charge against him

International Human Rights Day

On 10 December we celebrate human rights, in commemoration of the day when the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. That Declaration forms the backbone of the human rights architecture of our societies, where each of us – without discrimination – has the right to live and thrive in peace and safety.

Since its adoption, laws and, policies embracing human rights have made us freer. Children can assert their needs, women can make their own choices, persons with disabilities can live more independently, and we all enjoy safeguards against tyranny and abuse. But this acquis is not for granted. Worse, it is under threat.

As you read this message, there are people trapped in conflict zones; men, women and children who die while seeking our protection; people who are left at the margin of society and discriminated; people who continue to be repressed, beaten or killed because they seek the truth or just express themselves. People who are still locked-up in their disability, or who are trafficked and exploited.

But none of this is inevitable and we all have a crucial role to play, no matter how small.

This Human Rights Day, consider how essential human rights are for each person and let’s use them every day as our compass to seek justice, equality, peace and freedom for all.

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• Introduction

Origins in ancient Greece and Rome

• Natural law transformed into natural rights
• “Nonsense upon stilts”: the critics of natural rights
• The persistence of the notion
• The nature of human rights: commonly accepted postulates
• Liberté : civil and political rights
• Égalité : economic, social, and cultural rights
• Fraternité : solidarity or group rights
• Liberté versus égalité
• The relevance of custom and tradition: the universalist-relativist debate
• Inherent risks in the debate
• Developments before World War II
• The UN Commission on Human Rights and its instruments
• The UN Human Rights Council and its instruments
• Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
• The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
• The International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights
• The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and Its Optional Protocols
• Other UN human rights conventions and declarations
• Human rights and the Helsinki process
• Human rights in Europe
• Human rights in the Americas
• Human rights in Africa
• Human rights in the Arab world
• Human rights in Asia
• International human rights in domestic courts
• Human rights in the early 21st century

human rights

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• U. S. Department of State - Human Rights
• Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy - Human Rights
• The History Learning Site - Human Rights
• Cornell University Law School - Human rights
• Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy - Human Rights
• Social Sciences Libretexts - Human Rights
• human rights - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11)
• human rights - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)
• Table Of Contents

Recent News

human rights , rights that belong to an individual or group of individuals simply for being human, or as a consequence of inherent human vulnerability, or because they are requisite to the possibility of a just society. Whatever their theoretical justification, human rights refer to a wide continuum of values or capabilities thought to enhance human agency or protect human interests and declared to be universal in character, in some sense equally claimed for all human beings, present and future.

It is a common observation that human beings everywhere require the realization of diverse values or capabilities to ensure their individual and collective well-being. It also is a common observation that this requirement—whether conceived or expressed as a moral or a legal demand—is often painfully frustrated by social as well as natural forces, resulting in exploitation, oppression, persecution, and other forms of deprivation. Deeply rooted in these twin observations are the beginnings of what today are called “human rights” and the national and international legal processes associated with them.

Historical development

The expression human rights is relatively new, having come into everyday parlance only since World War II , the founding of the United Nations in 1945, and the adoption by the UN General Assembly of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. It replaced the phrase natural rights, which fell into disfavour in the 19th century in part because the concept of natural law (to which it was intimately linked) had become controversial with the rise of legal positivism . Legal positivism rejected the theory, long espoused by the Roman Catholic Church , that law must be moral to be law. The term human rights also replaced the later phrase the rights of Man, which was not universally understood to include the rights of women.

Most students of human rights trace the origins of the concept of human rights to ancient Greece and Rome , where it was closely tied to the doctrines of the Stoics , who held that human conduct should be judged according to, and brought into harmony with, the law of nature . A classic example of this view is given in Sophocles ’ play Antigone , in which the title character, upon being reproached by King Creon for defying his command not to bury her slain brother, asserted that she acted in accordance with the immutable laws of the gods.

In part because Stoicism played a key role in its formation and spread, Roman law similarly allowed for the existence of a natural law and with it—pursuant to the jus gentium (“law of nations”)—certain universal rights that extended beyond the rights of citizenship. According to the Roman jurist Ulpian , for example, natural law was that which nature, not the state, assures to all human beings, Roman citizens or not.

It was not until after the Middle Ages , however, that natural law became associated with natural rights. In Greco-Roman and medieval times, doctrines of natural law concerned mainly the duties, rather than the rights, of “Man.” Moreover, as evidenced in the writings of Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas , these doctrines recognized the legitimacy of slavery and serfdom and, in so doing, excluded perhaps the most important ideas of human rights as they are understood today—freedom (or liberty) and equality .

The conception of human rights as natural rights (as opposed to a classical natural order of obligation) was made possible by certain basic societal changes, which took place gradually beginning with the decline of European feudalism from about the 13th century and continuing through the Renaissance to the Peace of Westphalia (1648). During this period, resistance to religious intolerance and political and economic bondage; the evident failure of rulers to meet their obligations under natural law; and the unprecedented commitment to individual expression and worldly experience that was characteristic of the Renaissance all combined to shift the conception of natural law from duties to rights. The teachings of Aquinas and Hugo Grotius on the European continent, the Magna Carta (1215) and its companion Charter of the Forests (1217), the Petition of Right (1628), and the English Bill of Rights (1689) in England were signs of this change. Each testified to the increasingly popular view that human beings are endowed with certain eternal and inalienable rights that never were renounced when humankind “contracted” to enter the social order from the natural order and never were diminished by the claim of the “ divine right of kings .”

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Home » Human Rights Day, 21 March – what is this day all about?

Human Rights Day, 21 March – what is this day all about?

Human Rights Day isn’t just a public holiday. It’s an important day in South Africa’s history and one that should be remembered. So, when you take time out on your day off, remember to reflect.

Globally, Human Rights Day is celebrated on 10 December, but South Africa has its own version of this day, celebrated on 21 March every year.

It’s a public holiday and while you might enjoy your day off, it’s important to remember why this day is celebrated.

The day is linked with the events of Sharpeville on 21 March 1960. Almost 70 people died and 180 more were wounded when police opened fire on a peaceful crowd that was protesting the country’s pass laws.

It started with a group of men gathering without their passes outside the police station in Sharpeville.  Numbers of how many people were there vary from 5000 – 20 000.

The police later tried to disperse the crowd using batons and teargas and when they tried to arrest a protestor a scuffle ensued. Soon after, the police opened fire.

In total, there were 289 casualties, amongst them were 29 children. Harrowingly, many people were shot in the back as they were fleeing. Eight women and ten children were amongst the dead.

The protest formed part of a country-wide protest and eyewitness accounts later attested that there was no actual warning given for the crowd to disperse.

The official inquiry later corroborated that people were shot in the back as they were trying to flee. The presence of armoured vehicles and air force fighter jets overhead also pointed to unnecessary provocation, especially as the crowd was unarmed and determined to stage a non-violent protest.

According to an account from Humphrey Tyler, the assistant editor at Drum  magazine :

The police have claimed they were in desperate danger because the crowd was stoning them. Yet only three policemen were reported to have been hit by stones – and more than 200 Africans were shot down. The police also have said that the crowd was armed with ‘ferocious weapons’, which littered the compound after they fled. I saw no weapons, although I looked very carefully, and afterwards studied the photographs of the death scene. While I was there I saw only shoes, hats and a few bicycles left among the bodies. The crowd gave me no reason to feel scared, though I moved among them without any distinguishing mark to protect me, quite obvious with my white skin. I think the police were scared though, and I think the crowd knew it.

Police reports into the matter from the 1960s claim that the officers on duty were inexperienced and had some had no public order training. Reports also say that some of the officers on duty had been working for 24 hours straight.

Lieutenant Colonel Pienaar, the commanding officer of the police reinforcements at Sharpeville, gave a disturbing statement statement.

According to sahistory.org.za , he said in his statement: “the native mentality does not allow them to gather for a peaceful demonstration. For them to gather means violence.” [sic]

He further denied giving any order to fire and stated that he would not have done so.

Other evidence given to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) 38 years later, in 1998, by two of the victims claimed “a degree of deliberation in the decision to open fire”.

The TRC also found that police actions constituted “gross human rights violations in that excessive force was unnecessarily used to stop a gathering of unarmed people

The response was immediate. Demonstrations, marches, strikes and riots followed and on 30 March 1960, the government declared a state of emergency.

More than 18 000 people were detained, including prominent anti-apartheid activists

The news made international headlines with the United Nations Security Council passed Resolution 134 on 1 April 1960.

The resolution voiced the Council’s anger at the policies and actions of the apartheid government, offered their sympathies to the families of the victims, called upon the government to initiate measures aimed at bringing about racial harmony based on equality and called upon it to abandon apartheid.

The Council then requested that the Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld consult with the government of the Union of South Africa to make arrangements to help uphold the principles of the Charter and to report to the Council whenever necessary and appropriate.

Many view what happened at Sharpeville as a turning point in the country’s history. Although it would several decades before apartheid ended, South Africa increasingly found itself isolated from the international community.

It also played a part in the banning of the PAC and ANC, but the massacre became a catalyst for the shift from passive resistance to armed resistance by these organisations

In 1996, Sharpeville became the site where  Nelson Mandela signed the Constitution of the country into law.

Langa murders on 21 March

In Cape Town, around 1000 to 5000 protestors had gathered at the Langa Flats bus terminus at around 17:00, after the Sharpeville massacre had already taken place.

This gathering defied the government’s country-wide ban on public meetings and gatherings of more than ten persons.

The police ordered the crowd to disperse within three minutes. Protestors defied them and police charged with batons, tear gas and guns.

Three people were killed and 26 others were injured. Langa Township was gripped by tension and in the turmoil that ensued.

What are pass laws?

South Africa’s government under apartheid and colonialism enforced measures to keep people of colour out of the country’s cities.  Pass laws intended to control and direct their movement and employment were updated in the 1950s.

The National Party dictated that people of colour in urban areas were to carry so-called “pass books”.

It was compulsory for all black South Africans over the age of 16 to carry the “pass book” at all times in “white areas”. The law stipulated where, when, and for how long a person could remain

A pass book without a valid entry allowed officials to arrest and imprison the bearer of the pass.

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10 Reasons Why Human Rights Are Important

Interest and awareness of human rights has grown in recent decades. In 1948, the United Nations released the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which has become the most important document of what should be considered the standard for basic equality and human dignity. Why do human rights matter? Here are ten specific reasons:

#1: Human rights ensure people have basic needs met

Everyone needs access to medicine, food and water, clothes, and shelter. By including these in a person’s basic human rights, everyone has a baseline level of dignity. Unfortunately, there are still millions of people out there who don’t have these necessities, but saying it’s a matter of human rights allows activists and others to work towards getting those for everyone.

#2: Human rights protect vulnerable groups from abuse

The Declaration of Human Rights was created largely because of the Holocaust and the horrors of WII. During that time in history, the most vulnerable in society were targeted along with the Jewish population, including those with disabilities and LGBT. Organizations concerned with human rights focus on members of society most vulnerable to abuse from powerholders, instead of ignoring them.

#3: Human rights allow people to stand up to societal corruption

The concept of human rights allows people to speak up when they experience abuse and corruption. This is why specific rights like the right to assemble are so crucial because no society is perfect. The concept of human rights empowers people and tells them that they deserve dignity from society, whether it’s the government or their work environment. When they don’t receive it, they can stand up.

#4: Human rights encourage freedom of speech and expression

While similar to what you just read above, being able to speak freely without fear of brutal reprisal is more expansive. It encompasses ideas and forms of expression that not everybody will like or agree with, but no one should ever feel like they are going to be in danger from their government because of what they think. It goes both ways, too, and protects people who want to debate or argue with certain ideas expressed in their society.

#5: Human rights give people the freedom to practice their religion (or not practice any)

Religious violence and oppression occur over and over again all across history, from the Crusades to the Holocaust to modern terrorism in the name of religion. Human rights acknowledges the importance of a person’s religion and spiritual beliefs, and lets them practice in peace. The freedom to not hold to a religion is also a human right.

#6: Human rights allows people to love who they choose

The importance of freedom to love cannot be understated. Being able to choose what one’s romantic life looks like is an essential human right. The consequences of not protecting this right are clear when you look at countries where LGBT people are oppressed and abused, or where women are forced into marriages they don’t want.

#7: Human rights encourage equal work opportunities

The right to work and make a living allows people to flourish in their society. Without acknowledging that the work environment can be biased or downright oppressive, people find themselves enduring abuse or insufficient opportunities. The concept of human rights provides a guide for how workers should be treated and encourages equality.

#8: Human rights give people access to education

Education is important for so many reasons and is crucial for societies where poverty is common. Organizations and governments concerned with human rights provide access to schooling, supplies, and more in order to halt the cycle of poverty. Seeing education as a right means everyone can get access, not just the elite.

#9: Human rights protect the environment

The marriage between human rights and environmentalism is becoming stronger due to climate change and the effects it has on people. We live in the world, we need the land, so it makes sense that what happens to the environment impacts humanity. The right to clean air, clean soil, and clean water are all as important as the other rights included in this list.

#10: Human rights provide a universal standard that holds governments accountable

When the UDHR was released, it had a two-fold purpose: provide a guideline for the future and force the world to acknowledge that during WWII, human rights had been violated on a massive scale. With a standard for what is a human right, governments can be held accountable for their actions. There’s power in naming an injustice and pointing to a precedent, which makes the UDHR and other human right documents so important.

Do you want to learn more about why human rights are important? Take a free online course on human rights offered by top universities.

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About the author, emmaline soken-huberty.

Emmaline Soken-Huberty is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon. She started to become interested in human rights while attending college, eventually getting a concentration in human rights and humanitarianism. LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and climate change are of special concern to her. In her spare time, she can be found reading or enjoying Oregon’s natural beauty with her husband and dog.

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• Speech on Human Rights Day

Speech on Human Rights Day for Students

Every human being is deserving of the right to live in a safe place and earn a living. Even then in today’s global climate, many people are threatened to be robbed of their homes and basic rights. And in this pursuit, to inflict pain through various means one never feels safe. And for the very reason of injustices like this Human Rights Day is observed to allow these people the power to seek opportunities they are deserving of without feeling threatened. Human Rights Day speech can be given in different ways. This article entails a Long Speech on Human Rights Day and a Short Human Rights Day Speech.

Long Human Rights Day Speech

This format of a long 5-minute speech can be useful for students in grades 8-12 as they can discuss in detail the importance of this day and convey the message.

Good Morning, everyone, I am here to speak on a very crucial topic that is gaining even more attention today than ever before Human Rights and Human Rights Day. 73 years ago in 1948 on December 10th UN (United Nations), General Assembly adopted the UDHR (Universal Declaration of Human Rights). The proper implementation was not until they passed the official invitation to all the States and interested organisations after the approval of the Assembly in 1950. Since then, this day is annually commemorated for the celebration of Human Rights.

Today the world that we live in is divided by so many opinions and discriminations against gender, race, caste, and religion. The ones who are at the brunt of the receiving end of this harshness are the innocent children. Every child and human being deserves equal treatment in any room they enter regardless of their ethnicity and colour or gender.

Since we don’t live in an ideal world, the human rights of these discriminated people are under threat and they are only struggling and in doing so many have lost their lives as well. So to safeguard their interests and review the complaints of Human Rights Violation, the NHRC (National Human Rights Commission) is a body in India. It functions with similar objectives and aims to accomplish these missions like institutions for Human Rights in the world. It is a recommendatory body of constitution formed with the conformity of Principles of Paris. It acts according to the guidelines passed by the Government for the PHRA (Protection of Human Rights Act).

The main objective is to end human rights violations where some people are deprived of basic requirements like food, shelter, education, hygiene, and a safe place to grow and create opportunities for growth. This is a step in the direction to maintain peace and sanity in this ever-growing greedy and violent world. And it takes part in the Global Event wherein people celebrate the goodness in differences of the human beings and people who make an effort and an extra step to fight for this right also get awarded. It is a 5-yearly tradition that they award the United Nations Peace Prize in the Field of Human Rights and the Nobel Peace Prize. One such brave recipient of this award is Malala Yousafzai, a young girl who stood up against the Taliban who were depriving young children, especially girls of education. And during her fight, she managed to survive a gunshot and is still taking over the world and raising funds for educating girls.

Her efforts and achievements are truly noteworthy and deserving of all the praises and awards. Whenever we encounter any such violation of human rights in our lives, let’s be inspired enough to take a step to end this and celebrate the rights to be in peace and harmony.

Short Speech on Human Rights Day

This form of a Short Human Rights Day Speech is helpful for students in grades 4-7 to convey the importance of this day in brief.

Good morning everyone, I Abc (mention your name) feel honoured to be here today and talk about Human Rights Day. We are very fortunate to have a home, a roof over our heads, food, and are able to come to school safely. These are basic human rights and every being is deserving of this. But in so many places around the world people are robbed of their right to shelter, food, and even education, the most concerning being the safety of girls.

The United Nations is a body that has taken the responsibility to safeguard the rights of the victims of this violation on 10th December 1948, 73 years ago the UN General Assembly approved Article 423 (V) and declared the celebration of Human Rights Day. It was in 1950 that the invitation was officially extended to other States and organisations whose values and aims matched the objectives of UDHR (Universal Declaration of Human Rights).

Bringing harmony and peace into the world by observing and trying to eliminate the problems and complaints received from people who are facing the brutalities of violation of Human Rights. This day is celebrated worldwide to commemorate the proclamation made by the UN in 1948 on December 10.

The Indian Government confers the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA) and under the conformity of Principles of Paris, NHRC (National Human Rights Commission) is formed.

It’s important to be aware of the state in our country and take a step to fight against what’s wrong so human rights are intact and served right for the purpose.

10 Line Speech on Human Rights Day

This is a 2-minute Speech on Human Rights helpful to convey the idea and meaning to students in grades 1-3.

Human Rights Day is observed and celebrated on 10th December every year worldwide.

It is on this day in the year 1948, the United Nations acknowledged and proclaimed in their General Assembly to observe the celebration of human rights.

Other states and interested organisations who also work for safeguarding human rights and ending the violations were extended the invitations.

And the work actively started in the year 1950.

The Indian body that works extensively in this regard with the United Nations is  NHRC (National Human Rights Commission).

It was formed following the Principles of Paris.

NHRC also abides by the ideologies of the Protection of Human Rights Act (PHRA) stated by the Government of India.

The primary objective is to keep safe from discrimination with regards to any type of differences like race, religion, caste, and creed.

The rights are basic and universal like the right to life, free from discrimination, torture, slavery, and degrading treatment.

Any type of violation is a harm and threat to humankind and each step taken in the direction to protect these rights is in the interest of peace which is the need of the hour.

FAQs on Speech on Human Rights Day

1. What is the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”?

The “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” is an international document adopted by the UN assembly on the date of December 10, 1948, as Resolution 217 during its third session. The document entails the basic rights and freedoms of all human beings. At that time, from the 58 members present at the United Nations at the time, 48 voted in favour, none voted against it, eight abstained, and two did not vote. The declaration consists of a complete 30 articles explaining in detail the "basic rights and fundamental freedoms" of human beings.

2. What are the basic human rights provided by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights? 

There are a total of 30 articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which included the "basic rights and fundamental freedoms" of a human being. A simplified version of these rights, which are included in these 30 articles are given below: 

All human beings are born Free and Equal, everyone has the right to be treated in the same way.

Don’t discriminate against any human beings, whatever our differences.

Everybody has the right to live in freedom and safety.

Having or making slaves is not accepted.

Nobody has the right to hurt or torture anybody.

All the rights written in the declaration should be respected everywhere.

Everybody should be treated equally before the law.

Nobody can put a person in jail or detain him/her without any good reason. Neither one can send the person away from his/her country.

You should be able to ask the law and law agencies to help if any of your human rights are threatened.

The person under trial has the right to have a free and fair public trial. The judges of the trial should not tell anyone what to do or not.

Everyone should respect this statement “Proven till guilty”. A person under trial is not a criminal until he/she is proven to be guilty of a wrong deed.

Everyone has their right to privacy, one can’t interfere with the other person’s privacy, nobody can bother you or your family without good reason.

A person can live wherever he/she wants to in their country and travel to wherever they want to.

If a person’s country can’t provide a safe place to live, then the person can seek asylum in other countries.

We also have the right to belong to a country and have a Nationality.

3. When is Human Rights Day celebrated?

Human Rights Day is celebrated on the occasion of the adoption of the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” by the UN assembly as Resolution 217 during its third session on the date of December 10, 1948. This “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” entails the fundamental rights of human beings who live on the planet. This document “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” is translated into more than 500 languages, hence holding the Guinness World Record for the most translated document throughout the world.

4. Why is 10th December celebrated as Human Rights Day?

Human Rights Day is celebrated on 10 December annually across the world to celebrate the adoption of the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” by the UN assembly as Resolution 217. 48 out of 58 countries that were present at the United Nations, voted in favour of this document named “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”.

It is celebrated in order to acknowledge this “Universal Declaration of Human Rights” as to acknowledge the rights that are provided to every human being living on mother earth. To discuss the issues which harm these basic rights of human beings in any or sense anywhere around the globe.

5. What is the theme for Human Rights Day 2021 and 2020?

The theme of Human Rights Day 2021 was “equality”. As in today's world, the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer. The Human Rights Day of 2021, is to discuss how to deal with inequality.

In the year 2020, the theme of Human Rights Day was "Recover Better - Stand Up for Human Rights". The year 2020 was the year of COVID-19 and hence, the Human Rights Day theme was how to recover from the pandemic.

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The un secretary-general's message on human rights day.

This year’s commemoration of Human Rights Day marks the beginning of a year-long celebration of seven decades since the adoption of one of the world’s most profound and far-reaching international agreements.  The Universal Declaration of Human Rights establishes the equality and dignity of every human being and stipulates that every government has a core duty to enable all people to enjoy all their inalienable rights and freedoms.

All of us have a right to speak freely and participate in decisions that affect our lives.  We all have a right to live free from all forms of discrimination.  We have a right to education, health care, economic opportunities and a decent standard of living.  We have rights to privacy and justice.  These rights are relevant to all of us, every day.  They are the foundation of peaceful societies and sustainable development.

Since the proclamation of the Universal Declaration in 1948, human rights have been one of the three pillars of the United Nations, along with peace and development.  While human rights abuses did not end when the Universal Declaration was adopted, the Declaration has helped countless people to gain greater freedom and security.  It has helped to prevent violations, obtain justice for wrongs, and strengthen national and international human rights laws and safeguards.

Despite these advances, the fundamental principles of the Universal Declaration are being tested in all regions.  We see rising hostility towards human rights and those who defend them by people who want to profit from exploitation and division.  We see hatred, intolerance, atrocities and other crimes.  These actions imperil us all. 

On this Human Rights Day, I want to acknowledge the brave human rights defenders and advocates, including UN staff, who work every day, sometimes in grave peril, to uphold human rights around the world.  I urge people and leaders everywhere to stand up for all human rights – civil, political, economic, social and cultural -- and for the values that underpin our hopes for a fairer, safer and better world for all.

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Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day is a national day that is commemorated annually on 21 March to remind South Africans about the sacrifices that accompanied the struggle for the attainment of democracy in South Africa.

President Jacob Zuma will address this year’s Human Rights Day celebrations at the Sharpeville Cricket Grounds in Gauteng.

The commemoration provides the country with an opportunity to reflect on progress made in the promotion and protection of human rights.

The 1960s were characterised by systematic defiance and protest against apartheid and racism across the country. On March 21 1960, the community of Sharpeville and Langa townships, like their fellow compatriots across the country, embarked on a protest march to march protest against pass laws. The apartheid police shot and killed 69 of the protesters at Sharpeville, many of them shot while fleeing. Many other people were killed in other parts of the country. The tragedy came to be known as the Sharpeville Massacre and it exposed the apartheid government’s deliberate violation of human rights to the world.

The democratic government declared March 21 Human Rights Day to commemorate and honour those who fought for our liberation and the rights we enjoy today. Our Constitution is hailed as one of the most progressive in the world. The Constitution is the ultimate protector of our Human Rights, which were previously denied to the majority of our people under Apartheid. We commemorate Human Rights Day to reinforce our commitment to the Bill of Rights as enshrined in our Constitution.

These rights include:

• Equality – everyone is equal before the law and has the right to equal protection and benefit of the law.
• Human dignity – everyone has inherent dignity and have their dignity respected and protected.
• Freedom of movement and residence – everyone has a right to freedom of movement and to reside anywhere in the country.
• Language and culture – everyone has the right to use the language and to participate in the cultural life of their choice.
• Life - everyone has the right to life.

Government will host various activities throughout the Human Rights Month to remind all South African to continue working together to uphold the culture of human rights. Human Rights come with responsibilities and we all have the responsibility to build a society that respects the rule of law.

Whether we are at the work place, within communities, at schools, or with our partners and children, we all need to demonstrate the kind of responsibility that we would like to see in our country’s future.

We all have a responsibility to ensure that our human rights record and history are preserved and strengthened for future generations.

Related links

• Government on Human Rights Day
• Human Rights Month
• SA Government News Agency
• The South African Human Rights Commission
• Universal Declaration of Human Rights
• United Nations Human Rights

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Human Rights Day 2022

Human rights day 2022 – video message from dr tedros.

Human Rights day is celebrated every 10 December to create awareness and mobilize political will to promote respect for the rights and freedoms enshrined in the  Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.

The 2022 Theme of Human Rights Day is  Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All. Both the Declaration and WHO’s Constitution assert that health is a fundamental human right for all people.  

The right to health

There can be no dignity, freedom and justice without health for all. The right to health is about ensuring that everyone, everywhere can access affordable, quality healthcare. It is also dependent upon gender equality and the realization of other human rights including, food, education, housing and access to safe water and sanitation.

Everyone is entitled to the right to health regardless of race, colour, sex, language, gender, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, geographical location, religion, political or other opinion, nationality or social origin, property, socioeconomic or other status. 

The right to health means the right to control one’s health and body, including the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women and girls , without interference. Violence, including gender-based violence , is always a violation of the right to health and can have serious health consequences on the lives of women and children.

The right to health means leaving no one behind. This means that all persons should have access to health services without discrimination, including on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression.

The right to health means ending discrimination in all settings. This means supporting national and local authorities in addressing racial discrimination and related health inequities . This work includes integrating human rights, equity, gender responsive and intercultural approaches to guide public health policies and ensure that communities experiencing racial discrimination have access to comprehensive, culturally appropriate and quality health services.

WHO works with countries and partners to support the realization of the right to health. This work requires a comprehensive approach to identify who is being left behind and why; effective measures to address root causes; monitoring and measuring progress; and accountability.  WHO takes an intersectional approach to integrating health-related human rights across its programmes. This involves addressing overlapping layers of inequality and discrimination, and their root causes.

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