UN Human Rights Day- 2023

This is 75 years since the inception of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948, and the recognition and assurance of human rights have significantly expanded worldwide. The UDHR, a cornerstone for human rights, has paved the way for an evolving framework that now emphasizes the protection of vulnerable groups, including individuals with disabilities, indigenous communities, and migrants.

Nevertheless, the fundamental principles of the UDHR—dignity and equality in rights—have faced persistent challenges in recent times. Amidst contemporary issues such as pandemics, conflicts, widening inequalities, a morally questionable global financial system, racism, and climate change, the values and rights embedded in the UDHR serve as crucial guides for collective action. They reinforce the commitment to a world where no one is left behind.

In response to the current landscape, the year-long Human Rights 75 initiative aims to foster a paradigm shift towards a deeper understanding and active engagement with the universality of the UDHR. Amidst the complexities of our era, the initiative underscores the importance of freedom, equity, and justice as essential pillars for shaping a future that upholds the rights and dignity of all individuals. The theme of this year's Human Rights Day was “Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All.”

As educators, it is imperative to be familiar with the principles outlined in Article 26 of the UDHR. This article emphasizes the right to education, highlighting its fundamental nature and the equal opportunity it should provide to everyone. It underscores the importance of education in promoting understanding, tolerance, and friendship among all individuals, contributing to the realization of a world characterized by shared values and respect for human rights.

These are the three clauses under Article 26 of the UDHR:

1. Everyone has the right to an education. Education shall be free, at least in the elementary and fundamental stages. Elementary education shall be compulsory. Technical and professional education shall be made generally available, and higher education shall be equally accessible to all on the basis of merit.
2. Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It shall promote understanding, tolerance, and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups, and shall further the activities of the United Nations for the maintenance of peace.
3. Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that will be given to their children.

A country hopes to develop educated citizens with the knowledge and perspectives required for active engagement in a globalized world by placing a high priority on quality, accessibility, and inclusivity at all educational levels. The focus on global collaboration highlights the understanding that learning transcends national boundaries and that group efforts are necessary to meet the opportunities and difficulties that arise from this fact. Beyond the walls of the classroom, this cooperative endeavor promotes tolerance, respect for variety, and cultural understanding—all necessary elements of a peaceful and linked global society. Nations may work together to create a future where education serves as a catalyst for positive social change and enables people to make important contributions to a shared, inclusive, and prosperous society by upholding the values of human rights and striving for continual development.

This article has been authored by Mohammad Ahsan Kabir Rubel, who holds the position of Assistant Professor at Stamford University Bangladesh.