New Delhi [India], December 10 (ANI): UN Secretary‑General António Guterres said the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was a philosophical and political breakthrough that defines what every person needs to survive and thrive.
Guterres’ message for Indian Human Rights Day was read by Areti Saianni, UN Resident Coordinator, at an event at Bharat Mandapam attended by President Droupadi Murmu and NHRC Chairman Justice B. Ramasubramanian.
Nearly 80 years ago, the UDHR set out the essentials for human survival and dignity and has since been the bedrock of the global community, the message said. Human rights — civil, political, economic, social and cultural — are inalienable, indivisible and interdependent. Yet recent years have seen a shrinking of civic space, grave violations and a callous indifference to human suffering.
The message urged protecting the institutions that make human rights a lived reality and stressed that together we have the power to confront injustices. The United Nations, in partnership with civil society and governments, helps people realize basic rights by delivering food and shelter, supporting education and elections, clearing mines, defending the environment, empowering women and striving for peace.
Guterres warned that the UN cannot do this work alone; it depends on people everywhere taking a stand. When we protect the most vulnerable, refuse to look away and speak up for the institutions that speak up for us, we keep human rights alive. Rights should never take second place to profit or power, he added, calling for unity to protect dignity and freedom for all.
President Murmu, who graced and addressed the Human Rights Day event organized by the National Human Rights Commission in New Delhi, said protecting the rights and dignity of fellow citizens is a shared duty. She recalled that 77 years ago the world affirmed that every human being is born free and equal in dignity and rights and noted India’s role in shaping the global human rights framework, reflecting the vision of its freedom fighters.
Human Rights Day is observed annually on December 10 to commemorate the adoption of the UDHR, which enshrines rights entitled to every person regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, opinion, origin, property, birth or other status.
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