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International Human Rights Day

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Established in 1950, Human Rights Day also serves as an opportunity for the international community to celebrate human rights and human rights defenders and to reflect on the principles set forth in the declaration. Human Rights Day 2010 on 10 December recognizes the work of human rights defenders worldwide who act to end discrimination.

Considered one of the first major achievements of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is the foundation of international human rights law. Under the energetic and determined leadership of American Eleanor Roosevelt, the declaration drafters overcame significant differences in ideology, political systems, economic development and religious and cultural backgrounds among the then-58 U.N. members to draft a remarkable and enduring instrument.

The declaration is a groundbreaking document on many levels. It was the first document to articulate in detail the idea of universal human rights and fundamental freedoms, and also the first document to espouse universal principles adopted by an international organization. The declaration sets forth the principles of justice, equality, and dignity as indivisible human rights of every man, woman and child. According to the declaration, “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights” and the “inherent dignity of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.”

Acting alone or in groups within their communities, every day human rights defenders work to end discrimination by campaigning for equitable and effective laws, reporting and investigating human rights violations and supporting victims.

While some human rights defenders are internationally renowned, many remain anonymous and undertake their work often at great personal risk to themselves and their families.

The United States, as a supporter of human rights worldwide, honors the significance of human rights protection and the efforts of human rights defenders on Human Rights Day and throughout the year. Through its support of human rights programs in over 100 countries, the United States is working with human rights defenders to make the principles outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights a reality in the life of all nations and peoples.