Human Rights Day, observed every year on December 10, is one of the most important days on the world calendar.
This day allows us to reflect on where the world is today and how far we are from achieving equal rights for all.
Human Rights Day reminds us that to achieve this, we all have a role to play.
If you want to learn why Human Rights Day matters and impactful ways you can mark the day, don’t stray too far.
History of Human Rights Day.
Some of the worst human rights abuses in history happened during WWII. At the end of the war in 1945, about 75 million people lost their lives, 40 million of whom were civilians.
So the world knew they had to do something fast to save us from having to endure another horrible conflict like that again.
In June 1945, world leaders established the United Nations (UN) to help keep world peace. During the UN General Assembly on December 10, 1948, all member countries adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
This declaration contained 30 articles covering social, religious, cultural, and political rights. Most importantly, everyone, without exception, is entitled to these rights.
Two years later, at the 1950 UN General Assembly, the UN officially established Human Rights Day.
December 10 was chosen to match the day the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted.
How to celebrate Human Rights Day.
Make your Human Rights Day observance really count this year by doing any of the following:
Advocate for a human rights cause.
Unfortunately, there’s still no shortage of human rights violations in the world. But if you want to help make things better, you can raise awareness on Human Rights Day.
Making a difference can be as easy as sharing a poster, signing a petition, or speaking with friends and family.
Another great option is to write to your local elected officials about any human rights issue you’ve observed in your community.
Donate to a human rights organization.
One of the biggest impacts you can make in any cause is to donate directly to human rights organisations, as they are chronically underfunded and dealing with issues head-on.
If you’re feeling extra generous, consider setting up regular donations. Some organizations offer low-cost monthly options so you can support their work throughout the year.
Volunteer at a local human rights center.
Sometimes, the most valuable thing you can give is your time. Volunteering at a local soup kitchen, children’s home, or support center is an excellent way to honor the day.
If you’re unable to support locally, you can offer your services virtually.
Some organizations need help with content creation, fundraising, research, translation, administrative tasks, or even video editing and graphic design.
Human Rights Day FAQs
How many human rights are there?
The United Nations has outlined 30 basic human rights in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Everyone is entitled to these rights regardless of who they are, what they believe in, or where they come from.
Are there countries that celebrate Human Rights Day differently?
South Africa and Kiribati observe Human Rights Day on different dates.
In South Africa, Human Rights Day is observed on March 21, the anniversary of the Sharpeville tragedy. On the other hand, Kiribati holds its own on December 11.
What symbol represents human rights?
The symbol of human rights is a blue hand figure that also resembles a bird. It represents peaceful support for the advancement of human rights.
Human Rights Day Statistics
Across the world, issues such as poverty, hunger, conflict, and discrimination remain major challenges.
According to the United Nations Human Rights Office in 2024, these issues cause an estimated loss of one civilian life every 12 minutes.
Discrimination is also widespread: about one in five people report experiencing unfair treatment based on race, color, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.
Rates are even higher among people with disabilities, with around one in three reporting discrimination.
Despite the difficulties shown in global statistics, there are ongoing efforts to strengthen human rights protections.
Many countries continue to establish or expand national human rights institutions, which play key roles in promoting rights, monitoring issues, and organizing educational programs connected to Human Rights Day.
Human Rights Day also inspires large public gatherings, awareness campaigns, and community events in many parts of the world, each aimed at highlighting the importance of protecting human rights for everyone.
Human rights for all is the goal, but it’s still very much a work in progress and needs everyone’s support to make it a reality.
That is why Human Rights Day is such an important holiday. Each year, you have the chance to make your mark by speaking up, getting involved, and making donations.