The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, also known as the UN Declaration of Human Rights, is now 75 years old. Unfortunately, at the same time, human rights are under threat globally and in Finland, making their defense more crucial than ever.
The UN Declaration of Human Rights was adopted in 1948, forming the basis for international human rights legislation. It emphasizes individual fundamental rights and freedoms, such as the right to life, liberty, and security, prohibition of torture, and freedom of opinion and religion. It also highlights equality and nondiscrimination in all circumstances, regardless of race, gender, language, or religion. The declaration is universal, applying to all people, guiding states in the protection and promotion of human rights.
Currently, the world is regressing concerning human rights. Even in Finland, there is an attitude that not all human rights need to be respected. The direction is worrisome and frightening.
Every atrocity in the world begins when human rights are violated for the sake of “common good,” causing suffering and even loss of life. This has happened not only in the Second World War but also in recent history, for example, in Russia. The suppression of minority rights has advanced, and democracy is now just a memory.
In Finland, we must defend human rights, or else it’s a long road back. The situation is deteriorating, and if we don’t act, dark times lie ahead.
Let’s promote human rights using all democratic means available. If the rights of one group can be trampled upon, then everyone’s rights can be. It’s a long way back to a civilized state from there.
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