New York, On the occasion of Human Rights Day, observed on December 10, 2023, the United Nations Secretary-General emphasized the enduring importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the declaration, a critical document that continues to guide efforts to end wars, heal divisions, and promote dignity and peace worldwide.

According to United Nation Pakistan, the Secretary-General expressed concern over the current state of the world, where conflicts, poverty, hunger, deepening inequalities, and a human rights-threatening climate crisis are prevalent. He noted the rise in authoritarianism, the shrinking of civic spaces, attacks on the media, and the ongoing struggle for gender equality, including the rollback of women’s reproductive rights.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, with its opening assertion that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, remains a crucial roadmap. It provides common values and approaches to resolve tensions and foster the security and stability that the world desperately needs. As global frameworks are updated for the 21st century, the Secretary-General stressed the need for human rights to play a central and unique role.

He called on Member States to use the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration, and the upcoming Summit of the Future, as opportunities to strengthen their commitment to its timeless values. On Human Rights Day, the Secretary-General urged people worldwide to actively promote and respect human rights every day, for everyone, everywhere.