All humans are born equal; hence, your rights and responsibilities are mine. 10 December 2024 marks the 76th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly declaring the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in Paris. That declaration, which is available in more than 500 languages, making it the most translated document in the world (except for the Bible), is not just a document but a symbol of our shared commitment to human rights. It is arguably the world's most groundbreaking global pledge, and its significance cannot be overstated.

The UDHR, born out of the brutal acts and atrocities of the Second World War, serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of unchecked human behavior. It was an urgent call to resist the repetition of such a human tragedy and a stark warning that humans are existential threats to themselves if left unchecked. Today, the declaration is an effort to rekindle the spirit and fire of the Ubuntu consciousness; it is a naked reminder that we need each other to make tangible progress in our societies. 

What makes the UDHR unique is that it enshrines the inherent and inviolable rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being—irrespective of one's race, gender, nationality, religion, colour, language, social status, political ideology, etc.

 Human rights are a matter of give and take because protecting one's liberties is tantamount to defending the other man's freedom. Hence, one's freedom determines the freedom of others; you can only be free if I am free. This interconnectedness of rights underscores our collective responsibility in upholding human rights. It is a stark reminder that injustice anywhere threatens justice everywhere; hence, it is only where human rights are respected, the people are fed, and individuals and nations are free that much-needed peace and development can only last. A right delayed is a right denied.

With its inscribed documented 30 rights and freedoms necessary for the freedom and equality of everyone on the planet, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) acts as a global road map of liberty and equality – protecting the rights of every individual everywhere. It is a testament to the collective efforts of humanity to create an egalitarian world. It is, therefore, no surprise that many international bodies use the declaration as a foundation to fight for freedom, equality, and justice globally because the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is the global law and the foundation stone of rights.

In that regard, human rights mean the right to good health, a dignified life, and respect for the will of everyday people. To deny people their human rights is to challenge their fundamental humanity. Your rights and responsibilities are mine; that is why we are the same and need each other to make a massive difference in this world. Let's work together to advocate for human rights and ensure universal respect and protection.