Human Rights Day is Dec. 10, 2023. It has been globally observed since Dec. 10, 1948. Human Rights Day became a globally observed day because the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
According to the Declaration, there are 30 Human Rights. In the article “What are the 30 Human Rights” by the Hague Peace Projects they cover each right and a mini explanation to follow along with them. Junior Emily Thorn said, “I think it’s amazing that this is recognized as a day and as students we should be educated on our Human Rights in school.”
Humanitarian Aid needed
In the article “Conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo” by the Center for Preventive Action it discusses how the people from the DRC have been displaced, facing severe poverty and are in urgent need of medical aid and other humanitarian aid. Specific metals, including copper and cobalt, essential for making lithium-ion batteries are used to create things such as cell phones, electric cars and rechargeable devices. People in the U.S have turned to boycotting some of these items to show that they are against the way the citizens of DCR are being treated. The fights have been between M23 rebels and militias loyal to the Congolese army. The M23 rebels, a group that are supported by Rwanda. In the article Why M23 is not your average rebel group by Brian Sabbe, he covers how the rebels were originally a part of the CNDP, a different rebel group and how this happened due to a failed peace agreement.
Access to knowledge and education
In the article 21 Shocking Laws In North Korea That Will Make You Do A Double-Take by Bhupinder Singh, he mentions that North Koreans aren’t allowed to leave the country.This violates the Human Rights law article of freedom around the world. This rule is slightly bendable, you are only allowed to leave with permission from the government and only if you are leaving for something specific such as athletes, elite students or diplomats. They are also denied their freedom of speech and religion. Some people recognize North Korea for their harsh treatment and punishments of their citizens. North Korean civilians also aren’t allowed to browse the internet, make international calls and their government selects what is televised to them.
I think it’s amazing that this is recognized as a day and as students we should be educated on our Human Rights in school. — Emily Thorn
Imprisonment and detainment of citizens
The Associated Press article reported that Israel said Friday that the military was rounding up Palestinian men in northern Gaza for interrogation. This goes against the no torture or inhumane treatment rule. The article mentions that prisoners are being held captive and being left vulnerable. The Israeli military has also dropped white phosphorus on Palestinians. White Phosphorus is a chemical substance that is extremely toxic to humans. Palestinians not only need shelter, but they are also in urgent need of food and water. The news outlet BNN reported The United Nations (UN) has been reported distributing toys resembling food items to children in the beleaguered region of Gaza. Many question why the United Nations has given them toys instead of actual food as they’re going through a crisis. Hamas has also gathered up hostages which does go against the law of no unfair detainment. As both countries are war-torn and in shambles, they both struggle with their Human Rights as they get violated.
Protests have erupted around the world due to this conflict. With the protests, boycotting has become a way for supporters to also help bring attention to the issue. Lists have been created by Palestinian activists of brands that are funding or supporting Israel. Social media have also played a big factor in helping bring attention to the genocides in both Palestine and The Dominican Republic of Congo. TikTok Users have created filters that you can use in a 15-second video that collects money that can be sent to help fund different humanitarian services such as getting them shelter, food and water.
Bringing attention to countries that are struggling with their Human Rights is important because it is extremely unfair and heartbreaking to see what people are going through and the challenges they have to face. Protesting and donating is always an available option for people who believe this is wrong. The fight for Human Rights is a global initiative and hopefully on future Human Rights days, people recognize that they should stick together and advocate for people who need it.