Humanity is going through a sensitive period that coincides with the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Chaillot in Paris, where many prominent and influential figures in the field of human rights participated. On December 10, 2023, the eyes of the world gathered in a palace overlooking the Eiffel Tower, a place that witnessed an important date when a historic document was signed that carried within it a strong and comprehensive message.
The meeting was the venue for the presence of many prominent figures, from ambassadors, ministers, and vice presidents, to representatives of United Nations and European Union agencies, and human rights organizations. The meeting concluded with moving words from President Macron and high-level international figures.
The conference sessions focused on vital issues related to protecting and supporting human rights defenders, especially in light of the great challenges they face in wars and armed conflicts. The participants focused on the need to prosecute war criminals and not allow them to escape punishment, whether at the level of regional, European or international courts.
In this context, the contradiction emerges between the noble ideal contained in the Declaration of Human Rights and the reality of the violations to which activists and human rights defenders are exposed. Many lost their lives because they tried to convey the voice of detainees, rescue the wounded, or perform media, medical, or educational roles in serving vulnerable segments of society.
Human rights principles hold great value, but how can those principles be effectively achieved without binding international protection for implementers? This is the question that arises in light of the current challenges facing activists and human rights defenders.
In another context, these events coincided with Human Rights Day, which the United Nations commemorates annually on December 10. In his message to mark this day, UN Secretary-General Guterres urged people around the world to promote and respect human rights every day, everywhere. He said that the Declaration of Human Rights constitutes a roadmap for ending wars and promoting peace and dignity for all.
In conclusion, the Secretary-General stressed the importance of promoting and respecting all human rights, whether social, cultural, economic, civil or political. Our commitment to these values reflects our interest in protecting people and enhancing our common humanity in this world that needs concerted efforts to overcome current challenges.
