Despite new threats and challenges, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights remains a roadmap that is still relevant and powerful. As we confront the climate crisis, the rise in authoritarianism, violence, gender inequality, attacks on freedom of expression, the press, and political participation, as well as threats to the rights of migrants and LGBTQI+ people, these universal principles serve as our guide.
“The Universal Declaration of Human Rights does not only contain norms that have been adopted by Latin American countries as legal standards, In many countries constitutions or other laws, we find the principles contained in the Universal Declaration a part of the legal system,” says WOLA’s President Carolina Jiménez Sandoval in this video, as we celebrate 75 years since the U.N. General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948,
While much has changed, the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration – freedom, equality, non-discrimination – are values we employ every day. Furthermore, it embodies values and an aspiration that the Latin American human rights movement still strives for – the protection of human dignity.
Eleanor Roosevelt, who chaired the U.N. commission that drafted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, predicted that civil society and NGOs would proliferate like a “curious grapevine” and uphold these ideals even in the harshest times.
As WOLA celebrates its 50th anniversary, we are proud to stand in this tradition and are committed more than ever to our role of holding governments to account. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights acts as a powerful beacon in our continued struggle for Human Rights in the Americas. “The principle of human dignity remains as important today as it was 75 years ago.”
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- Learn more about the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
- Watch this short video on the history of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
- Join the United Nations in their count down to Human Rights Day.
- Submit your pledge to Human Rights!
WOLA is a leading research and advocacy organization advancing human rights in the Americas. We envision a future where public policies protect human rights and recognize human dignity, and where justice overcomes violence. WOLA tackles problems that transcend borders and demand cross-border solutions. We create strategic partnerships with courageous people making social change—advocacy organizations, academics, religious and business leaders, artists, and government officials. Together, we advocate for more just societies in the Americas.
