—THEY ARE THE FOUNDATION OF FREEDOM, DIGNITY, AND EQUALITY FOR ALL
LAST week, the world observed International Human Rights Day, and while most professionals understood what it meant, the majority of the population went about their normal routines without realising the fundamental importance of such a day. In 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Human Rights Day marks the anniversary of one of the most important global pledges: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). As such, all United Nations Member States observe Human Rights Day to emphasise the relevance and significance of human rights in our daily lives. On Tuesday, 10th December, the world observed Human Rights Day under the theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.” The UDHR is a document that highlights the rights of human beings across the world, regardless of who they are, where they live, what language they speak, their race or ethnicity, their creed, sex, or status.

In this week’s column, I want to highlight why human rights are so important and why we should take time around next year’s observance of Human Rights Day to reflect on its significance. Human rights are the foundation of a fair and just society. Where equality and equity exist, respect for human rights also exists. Unfortunately, in many parts of the world—and even in Guyana—these fundamental rights are violated, disregarded, or overlooked. At the centre of understanding human rights, it is important to note their intersections are broad, from economic freedoms such as the right to employment to political rights such as freedom of speech. A human right such as the freedom of speech is not a privilege; it is an entitlement.

According to the United Nations, human rights are categorised under economic, social, and cultural rights, as well as civil and political rights. There are also collective human rights, such as cultural preservation.
The observance of Human Rights Day is a reflection of the fact that not every human being’s entitlement to human rights is adhered to. It sparks important conversations and reminds people who might be violated in some way that they have rights, and most times, those very rights are protected through local legislation.

In Guyana, challenges in human rights protection manifest in areas such as gender-based violence, access to education, and economic inequality. One example of such violations is financial abuse—often an invisible form of domestic violence. Addressing this violation is a crucial step toward empowering women. By addressing financial control and dependency, we can create avenues for women to reclaim their independence and exercise their full rights. When a woman is financially abused, her right to work, her right to education, and her right to economic freedom may be infringed upon. This example, among countless others, illustrates why the observance of Human Rights Day is of utmost importance to all.

In a world where colonialism of entire ethnicities and genocides of cultural heritage have occurred, human rights protect against the repetition of these painful moments in history. Yes, similar stories and events are still happening today. Those who commit such acts are in violation of others’ human rights. The United Nations works globally through its various bodies, such as the Human Rights Council, to ensure that human rights are protected. However, I believe we still must “be our brother’s keeper.” As you read this article, I hope it inspires you to ensure that the rights of your friends, colleagues, family, and, importantly, your own self are protected, respected, and valued. As we move forward, let us remember the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, who said, “Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home.” It begins with you and me—speaking out against injustices, supporting those in need, and holding systems accountable.