The Evolution and Principles of Universal Human Rights

1.1 The Origins of Human Equality

In the seventeenth century, the idea germinated that human beings are born free and equal, implying that no power can take away this inherent freedom. This concept challenged royalty, asserting that rights belong to all free adults.

1.2 The Nineteenth-Century Struggle

The fight for equality accelerated in the nineteenth century. The state's role in ensuring equality was forged through the labor movement, the struggle for women's rights, and the fight for the abolition of slavery.

1.3 The UN and the 1948 Declaration

The aftermath of World War II left a trail of barbarity. To ensure such atrocities are never repeated, the United Nations was created. In 1948, the UN issued the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which emphasizes brotherhood and solidarity between all human beings.

2.1 Fundamental Human Rights

• Born free and equal.
• We have the same rights: Life, Freedom, and Security.
• Slavery and torture are strictly forbidden.
• All are equal before the law.
• We have the right to justice and the presumption of innocence.
• We have a right to a private life.
• The right to a nationality.
• The right to property.
• Freedom of thought and religion.
• Freedom of speech.
• The right to work and fair wages.
• The right to a decent standard of living and education.
• No one can suppress these rights.

3.1 Natural vs. Legal Rights

Some believe rights exist only when established by law. Others argue that rights are not granted by authorities but are inherent to human nature—natural and universal. The challenge lies in defining these fundamental rights.

3.2 The Concept of Human Dignity

Faced with this challenge, the concept of dignity emerged: the intrinsic value of every human person simply for being human. Dignity is the foundation of human rights, which must inspire all legal systems. While the 1948 UN Declaration recognizes these rights globally, their practical application varies by country.

3.3 Individual Rights and Collective Responsibility

Human rights are individual, serving as a barrier against abuses by the state or the majority. These individual rights are enjoyed collectively, as they can only be fully realized within a society. The counterpart to these rights is human duty.

3.4 Addressing Criticisms of Human Rights

Human rights face various critiques. Some accuse them of being Western-centric or ethnocentric, arguing they fail to reflect African or Asian perspectives. The response is that the fundamental principles of rights, freedom, equality, and solidarity are universal assets belonging to all human beings.