UN marks 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

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The global community Monday commemorated the 2018 Human Rights Day (HRD) under thetheme: “Stand up for human rights,” aimed at promoting awareness about humanrights around the globe, which also marks the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration ofHuman Rights (UDHR).

In 1948, the UN`s General Assembly adopted the UDHR, a charter that reaffirmed thefaith of all nations in fundamental human rights, dignity, and worth of the human being   to promote social progress and better the lives of people worldwide. Since then, HRD is observed globally every December 10; to celebrate the adoption of the declaration by the UN andrecognize the inherent dignity, equal and inalienable rights of humanity whichforms the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world.

“The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was conceived as a detailed map toguide the world`s people out of conflict and suffering and ensure that relationswithin societies, and between states, could be sustainable and peaceful,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, in a statement to mark the 70th anniversary of the Declaration.

This year`s celebration seeks to “honor the human rights defenders risking their lives to protect people in the face of rising hatred, racism, intolerance, and repression,” says Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General.

The Sustainable Development Goals – a set of 17 ambitious goals adopted by the UN in 2015 seek to end poverty, eliminate violence against women and girls as wellas ensure equitable societies, amongsat others. Protecting the human rights of all peoples of the world is critical to achieving equitable society and prosperity for all, in accordance with the SDGs.