Understanding Taxes, Civil Protection, Social Security, and Human Rights

Taxes and Rates

Taxes

Taxes are the state's contribution from individuals and companies to fund public expenditures.

Rates

Rates are imposed for the utilization of public space, the provision of services, or activities that benefit the taxpayer (e.g., ITV).

Civil Protection

Prevention

Prevention involves detecting potential risk sources to mitigate emergency situations.

Intervention

Intervention is the coordinated response of different bodies during an emergency.

Ministry of Interior

The Ministry of Interior is responsible for the preparation and execution of government policy related to civil protection.

General Directorate of Civil Protection and Emergencies

This agency under the Ministry of Interior has functions including:

• Preparing state civil protection plans
• Conducting exercises and drills
• Risk analysis studies
• Developing guidelines for prediction, prevention, and planning
• Managing allocations for disaster relief

Social Security

Social security protects society members from income reduction or loss due to various causes. It provides measures like medical assistance and family support.

Economy

A primary objective is to build a strong, globally competitive economy.

European Union

The European Union is an international body promoting unity, security, and harmony among its people. It involves:

Economic Integration

Open borders for goods, people, and capital, and a common currency.

Political Integration

Common political bodies and a legal system.

Key EU Institutions

• European Parliament: Creates EU laws, elected by citizens.
• European Council: Proposes EU policies, formed by heads of state/government.
• European Commission: Executes Council's proposed policies, advised by experts.
• Court of Justice: Ensures uniform interpretation and application of EU law.

Human Rights

Why a Declaration of Rights?

A declaration is necessary because:

• Disregard for human rights leads to atrocities.
• It strives for a world free from fear and want.
• Protecting human rights is essential.
• It reaffirms faith in fundamental human rights, dignity, and equality.

Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Key Articles)

1. All are born free and equal.
2. No distinction based on race, color, sex, language, religion, etc.
3. Right to life.
4. No slavery or servitude.
5. No torture.
6. Right to legal personality.
7. Equality before the law.
8. Right to legal defense.
9. No arbitrary arrest, imprisonment, or exile.
10. Right to a fair trial.
11. Presumption of innocence.
12. Right to privacy.
13. Freedom of movement.
14. Right to asylum.
15. Right to nationality.
16. Right to marriage.
17. Right to property.
18. Freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.
19. Freedom of expression.
20. Freedom of assembly.
21. Right to democracy.
22. Right to social security.
23. Right to work.
24. Right to leisure.
25. Right to an adequate standard of living.
26. Right to education.
27. Right to culture.
28. Right to social order.
29. Respect for community freedoms.
30. These rights cannot be suppressed.