It was actually supposed to be a major celebration: the UN summit in Geneva marking the 75th anniversary of the International Declaration of Human Rights. Indeed, human rights are currently in decline in almost all parts of the world, and are under unprecedented pressure.
The United Nations Declaration of Human Rights is one of humanity’s greatest achievements. It was created after the harsh experiences of the First and Second World Wars. For the first time, the basic rights of citizens vis-à-vis their governments have been established around the world: freedom, dignity, and security. More specifically: freedom of the media, freedom of assembly, prohibition of torture, freedom of religion, gender equality, and much more.
The world is off track. Authoritarian rulers are on the rise.
“In every country in the world, I see how important it is for people to respect and protect their fundamental rights,” says UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk. The reality is different now, as UN Secretary-General António Guterres admits: “The world has lost its way. Autocrats are on the rise.” A large part of human rights is under pressure.
The idea of human rights has not failed
Rather, they openly fight regimes such as the Chinese, Russian, and Iranian regimes in international committees. Obviously, others are turning away from him. Even in many democratic countries it is no longer popular. This can also be seen in the long list of heads of state and government absent from the Geneva Human Rights Summit.
However, High Commissioner for Human Rights Türk says: “No, the idea of human rights has not failed. Rather, the current situation is due to their cynical disregard.” Of course you can say it that way too. But this does not change the shocking results. The current trend is clear: things are getting worse, not better. Except for rare exceptions.
Therefore, Guterres appeals to UN member states: “Take advantage of the seventy-fifth anniversary to once again fulfill their obligations and defend and promote human rights.” The call is urgent. But it is likely to fall on deaf ears in many capitals.
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