“Human Rights: Building the Future Today, Says Secretary-General on International Day”

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Human Rights Day: A Call to Defend our Shared Values

The following message comes from United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres for Human Rights Day, observed annually on December 10:

Today, on Human Rights Day, we confront a sobering reality: human rights are increasingly under threat across the globe. Tens of millions of people struggle with poverty and hunger, while inadequate healthcare and education systems — still reeling from the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic — fail to meet basic needs. Global inequalities continue to grow unchecked. Conflicts are escalating, international laws are being blatantly disregarded, and authoritarian regimes are gaining ground. At the same time, civic space is shrinking, and hateful rhetoric is driving discrimination, division, and acts of violence. Alarmingly, women’s rights are being systematically rolled back in both legislation and everyday practice.

This year’s theme emphasizes an urgent truth: human rights are the foundation for shaping a better future, and action must begin today. All human rights are interconnected and indivisible. Whether economic, social, civic, cultural, or political, the erosion of one right undermines them all.

It is our collective responsibility to stand firm in defense of every human right. This means healing divisions and fostering peace, combating poverty and hunger, ensuring universal access to healthcare and education, and promoting justice and equality for women, girls, and marginalized communities. It also requires safeguarding democracy, upholding press freedom, protecting workers’ rights, and supporting the right to live in a safe, clean, and sustainable environment. Most critically, we must champion and protect human rights defenders who work tirelessly to advance these causes.

The recent adoption of the Pact for the Future reaffirms the global community’s commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

On this significant day, let us come together to protect, defend, and uphold the human rights of every person, everywhere.

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This version maintains the original message while refining the tone and flow for clarity and readability.