2018 marked the 70th anniversary of the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Created as a roadmap for peaceful and
decent societies, born out of the chaos,
despair and bloodshed of two world wars
and the desire that such atrocities never
happen again.
Since its adoption, and thanks to the
dedication of human rights defenders and
visionary leaders, the dignity of millions
has been uplifted, untold human suffering
prevented and the foundations for a more
just world laid.
But the promise of the Declaration is
yet to be kept for all. Inequality has
grown. Fundamental freedoms are under
strain the world over with populism and
intolerance on the rise.
Working with countries the world over,
every day UN Human Rights strives to
turn this around: to help make human
rights a reality for everyone, everywhere.
By building up capacity of countries to
protect rights, by bringing people together
across sectors and continents to address
barriers, by speaking out publicly against
abuses, by forging partnerships for global
and local change, we make a tangible
difference in people’s lives.
Now more than ever, we must stand up
together for human rights – stand up for
equality, justice and freedom. In a divided
world, human rights unite us. By standing
up for your rights, my rights and their rights
too, we can face down selfishness, hatred,
and despair; we can find a brighter future
for us all.
Thank you for considering becoming our
ally for rights.