Human rights not rich man's glory


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Human Rights Not "Rich Man's Luxury"

Human rights are universal not only because their roots exist in all cultures and traditions. Their modern universality is founded on their endorsement by all 185 Members of the United Nations. The Declaration itself was the product of debates between a uniquely representative group of scholars, a majority of whom came from the non-Western world, said UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Human Rights Day, 10 December 1997.

Human rights are not just a "rich man's luxury" but must be observed by all, Mr. Annan has pointed out. "Human rights are African rights, they are American rights. They belong to no government, they are limited to no continent, for they are fundamental to humankind itself," he said.

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The United Nations this year celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Declaration was adopted in 1948.

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Mary Robinson, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, says the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is like a tree: "It has gradually taken root and grown into a unique enduring specimen. Slowly it has acquired impressive stature. It will need to be looked after with understanding and humility but also with love", she says.