Geneva, In a momentous event marking the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk delivered a powerful welcome address. He reflected on the Declaration’s historical significance and its ongoing relevance in addressing current global challenges.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, High Commissioner Türk’s address in Geneva highlighted the Universal Declaration as a beacon of hope born from the ashes of global warfare. He emphasized that the Declaration, adopted 75 years ago by all Member States of the United Nations, recognized “the inherent dignity, and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family,” laying the foundation for freedom, justice, and peace worldwide.

Türk welcomed participants from diverse regions and walks of life, underscoring the universal nature of the rights enshrined in the Declaration. He reminded attendees that regardless of socioeconomic status, all human beings are born equal in dignity and rights, and this principle has fueled many liberation movements throughout history.

The High Commissioner recounted how people, oppressed by various forms of discrimination and injustice, have drawn strength from the Declaration to demand justice, end segregation, topple oppressive regimes, and achieve accountability for crimes. He acknowledged the progress and development facilitated by these movements but also pointed out the numerous failures in upholding human rights over the past 75 years.

Türk cited ongoing global issues such as war, famine, discrimination, repression, and environmental threats, attributing them to a failure to uphold human rights. He emphasized that the guide to resolving these challenges exists within the Universal Declaration, which was drafted in the aftermath of the Holocaust and amid threats of total destruction.

The High Commissioner paid tribute to various cultural and philosophical contributions that have nourished the Universal Declaration, including the Haitian revolution, African values, Islamic principles, Enlightenment freedoms, Asian spiritual traditions, and Latin American voices advocating universality and indivisibility.

Türk’s address at the event was a call to action and hope. He urged attendees to overcome polarization, work courageously and with principles, and base decisions on the intrinsic, equal value of every human life, echoing the spirit that led to the adoption of the Universal Declaration.

This event serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the need for continued commitment to its principles in the face of modern-day challenges.