AS the world marks the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on World Human Rights Day, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) pledges its unwavering dedication to promoting and safeguarding fundamental human rights for all citizens.

The United Nations designated December 10th as World Human Rights Day to commemorate the proclamation of the UDHR in Paris on the same day in 1948. The UDHR asserts the inherent rights of every individual, irrespective of factors such as race, color, religion, sex, language, political opinion, or other distinctions.

Embedded in Article 212D of the Constitution of Guyana, the ERC holds a crucial mandate to advocate for and protect these fundamental human rights. Recognising the historic significance of the UDHR’s 75th anniversary, the ERC underscores the importance of continued efforts to protect vulnerable groups, eliminate racism, and uphold human rights principles globally.

In a statement released on this occasion, the ERC reaffirms its commitment to fostering tolerance, understanding, and respect for diversity within Guyana’s multi-ethnic society. The Commission emphasises the need for ongoing initiatives to ensure the protection of all citizens, emphasising that while human rights have gained recognition worldwide, there is a persistent duty to guarantee these rights universally.

The ERC outlines its strategy to empower individuals and communities through awareness campaigns about their rights, actively combating discrimination, and promoting social harmony. This multifaceted approach involves education, monitoring, research, and proactive conflict resolution to address and rectify instances where human rights may be jeopardized.

On International Human Rights Day, the ERC aligns itself with national, regional, and global voices in championing the cause of human rights. The Commission reiterates its commitment to safeguarding the inherent dignity and fundamental rights of every individual, thereby contributing to the global endeavor to create a world where human rights are universally respected and protected.