This day is celebrated every 10th December and marks the adoption of the universal declaration of human rights by the United Nations in 1948. This declaration advocates for equality based on equal rights for all human beings throughout the world. The day was first marked in 1950. It’s day dedicated to condemning corrupt and undemocratic system of government where people use power and authority to commit acts of terror. It’s a day of campaigning against erosion of basic human rights amongst the poor, oppressed, voiceless and amongst racial and religious minorities.
Some common human rights abuses include ethnic clashes, arbitrary and extra – judicial executions, police brutality torture, domestic violence, mob violence, corruption and land grabbing. These abuses have a strong negative impact on people and the environment such as displacement of people making them to seek refuge in natural forests leading to deforestation, congestion, lack of sanitation, decline in food production etc.
Suggest activities
- Everybody has a right to a clean and health environment . Discuss ways of ensuring that this right is not jeopardized.
- Compose songs, poems and drama on need for human rights.
- Hold prayers for those living in various forms of oppression.
- Invite village elders to discuss how human rights were upheld by indigenous communities.
- Write an essay or summary notes on how you celebrated the international human rights day . publicise your success on this blog.
For further Information, contact:
Kenya Human Rights Commission