UN Secretary‑General António Guterres told an Indian Human Rights Day gathering that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was both a philosophical and political breakthrough, setting out what every person needs to survive and thrive. His message was delivered in New Delhi by Areti Saianni, the UN Resident Coordinator, at an event at Bharat Mandapam attended by President Droupadi Murmu and NHRC Chairman Justice B. Ramasubramanian.
Guterres recalled that since the UDHR was adopted in 1948 it has established the essentials for human survival and dignity and become a foundation for the international community. He underscored that civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights are inalienable, indivisible and interdependent, even as recent years have seen shrinking civic space, serious violations and alarming indifference to suffering.
The Secretary‑General’s message urged protection of the institutions that make rights a lived reality and emphasized collective power to confront injustice. He outlined how the United Nations, together with civil society and governments, helps people realize basic rights by delivering food and shelter, supporting education and elections, clearing landmines, defending the environment, empowering women and working for peace.
Guterres warned that the UN cannot carry out this work alone; it depends on people everywhere to take 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,’’ he said, adding that rights should never be sacrificed for profit or power and calling for unity to safeguard dignity and freedom for all.
President Droupadi Murmu, who addressed the National Human Rights Commission’s event, said protecting citizens’ rights and dignity is a shared duty. She recalled the UDHR’s affirmation that every human being is born free and equal in dignity and rights and noted India’s contribution to shaping the global human rights framework, reflecting the ideals of its freedom fighters.
Human Rights Day is observed every year on December 10 to mark the adoption of the UDHR, which proclaims the rights belonging to every person regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, opinion, origin, property, birth or other status.
