The essence of human rights, the legacy of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the work of noted champions were the focus of a celebration on International Human Rights Day in Washington, DC.
Paula Boland, the President and CEO of the UN Association of the National Capital Area (UNA-NCA), emphasized that human rights are “everyday essentials” – not abstract ideals. The right to speak without fear, to live without discrimination, to learn, to work, and to participate fully in society are necessities that shape daily life, she said. The international day is an opportunity to reflect on progress, recommit to shared values, and renew collective responsibility to protect the most vulnerable.
UNA-NCA is the largest U.S. chapter of United Nations Associations, a grassroots network that dates to the UN’s founding in 1945. The United Nations Foundation hosted the 10 December event with other private organizations.
In his message, UN Secretary-General António Guterres reaffirmed that human rights are inalienable, indivisible, and interdependent. William Davis, UNIC-Washington’s Director, noted the message’s warning of growing threats to civic space and human rights institutions worldwide – and the Secretary-General’s call on governments, civil society, and individuals alike to stand up for the institutions and norms that make human rights a lived reality.
A Member of Congress, two former U.S. ambassadors, and the Chair of UNA-NCA’s Board of Directors presented the annual awards to four individuals and an organization.
For more:
