Why Has the Call to Defend Human Rights Never Been Louder?

By: Meghen Peck

Imagine being told that the fight for human rights is still ongoing as we approach 2025—would you believe it? How is it possible that, during one of the wealthiest times in human history, access to basic necessities like education, healthcare, housing, and food remains out of reach for millions? The truth is, we are still in the thick of this struggle, with countless lives impacted daily by inequities, oppression, and injustice. Let that sink in.?

Annually, Human Rights Day is celebrated on December 10. It is a national holiday that honors the 1948 adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights laid the foundation for global efforts to protect the inherent dignity and freedoms of all people, regardless of race, gender, nationality, or religion. Yet, as we reflect on this historic milestone, we’re reminded that the ideals embedded in this declaration are not guaranteed.?

The Ongoing Struggle for Human Rights

Despite the Universal Declaration of Human Rights’ promise, the ideals that it set forth remain aspirations rather than universal realities. In 2024, over 60% of countries received failing grades in an annual human rights report, indicating a systemic breakdown in protections for basic freedoms worldwide. Marginalized communities are still fighting for basic rights that many take for granted, such as access to education, healthcare, and safety. (Yes, safe spaces are still an issue.)?

For example, more than 370 million girls and women have experienced rape or sexual assault before the age of 18, according to UNICEF. This number shows the persistent threats to safety and dignity?millions of girls and women endure. It’s also a heartbreaking reminder that human rights violations are lived experiences for far too many.

Globally, the toll of ongoing armed conflicts speaks volumes regarding these challenges. As of 2024, there are 110 active armed conflicts worldwide, costing approximately $2.5 trillion annually and resulting in significant civilian casualties, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. The impact on civilians is devastating: In 2023, civilian deaths in conflict zones increased by 72%, with children’s fatalities tripling and women’s doubling. This highlights the severe humanitarian cost of war and the urgent need for peace-building efforts.

Furthermore, over 244 million children are out of school, many due to systemic poverty and discrimination. And even in countries with democratic values, the conversation around human rights is often clouded by political divides, economic inequality, and cultural resistance. This is not to diminish the progress made since 1948. Movements for civil rights, gender equality, disability advocacy,? and greater inclusion for marginalized communities have reshaped societies and legal systems worldwide. However, each milestone reveals new challenges that demand our attention and action.

Human Rights in 2025 and the Role of DEI&B?

In 2025, the conversation around human rights will remain inseparable from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI&B). Why? These principles have become essential frameworks for addressing modern human rights challenges.

• Diversity highlights the importance of representing all voices, perspectives, and experiences in decision-making spaces, from boardrooms to government leadership.
• Equity ?seeks to dismantle systemic barriers, creating opportunities that recognize and address historic disadvantages.
• Inclusion emphasizes creating environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to participate fully in society.
• Belonging extends beyond inclusion, focusing on creating a deep sense of connection where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported as their authentic selves.??

The problem is that despite initial commitments, many companies are eliminating or scaling back on DE&I efforts. Whether we’re talking about racial justice, gender parity, or the rights of refugees, DE&I initiatives are mandatory—not optional. While corporations, governments, and educational institutions have begun embedding these principles into their practices, there is much more work to be done as we all work to dismantle this ongoing, pressing issue.

How You Can Take Action

Human Rights Day is a call to action, urging everyone to advocate for human rights at local, national, and global levels. Here are a few ways to make a difference:

1. Educate yourself and others. Understanding the history and current state of human rights is the first step toward meaningful advocacy. Share resources, attend events, and spark conversations in your community.

2. Support human rights organizations. Nonprofits and grassroots organizations often lead the charge in advancing human rights. Consider donating your time or money to causes you’re passionate about. Not sure where to start? Research reputable organizations like Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Anti-Slavery International.?

3. Advocate for policy change. Write to your representatives about pressing human rights issues and demand accountability from those in power. Every voice matters in shaping policy.

4. Implement DE&I in your daily life. Be mindful of how you can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society in your workplace, community, and personal interactions.

Building a Future Rooted in Human Rights Beyond 2025?

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was a promise that every human being’s dignity and worth matter. As we approach 2025, we must carry forward the vision of a world where these rights are not privileges but guarantees. The fight for human rights is far from over, but each step we take, no matter how small, brings us closer to the ideals celebrated on Human Rights Day.

So today, let’s recommit to the principles of justice, equity, and freedom. The future of human rights depends on our vigilance, our voices, and our determination to create a better world for all.