Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted on December 10, 1948, by the newly formed United Nations in response to the “barbarous acts which outraged the conscience of mankind” during the Holocaust and the Second World War. Its adoption recognized human rights to be the foundation for freedom, justice and peace.  

The UDHR has since served as the cornerstone for the international human rights system, as it is a universal declaration of intent by governments that they will abide by agreed-upon standards in the treatment of human beings. For the first time, the world had created a document that proclaimed all humans as being free and equal, regardless of sex, race, creed, religion or other characteristics. 

The UDHR acts like a global road map for freedom and equality—protecting the rights of every individual, everywhere. It was the first time countries agreed on the freedoms and rights that deserve universal protection in order for every individual to live their lives freely, equally and in dignity.

“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”  

—Article 1, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The Declaration goes on to define 30 human rights, including freedom of expression, the right to education and the right to seek asylum. It includes economic, social and cultural rights, such as the rights to health, social security and adequate housing. It also includes civil and political rights, such as the rights to liberty, due process and privacy.