Sociology and Criminology-Open Access
Open Access

The Role of Human Rights in a Global Society

Emily Gilbert^{* *}Correspondence: Emily Gilbert, Department of Criminology, Abertay University, Scotland, UK, Email:

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About the Study

Human rights are the fundamental principles that recognize and protect the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, irrespective of their nationality, ethnicity, gender, religion, or any other distinguishing characteristic. Enshrined in international law, human rights serve as a moral compass guiding societies toward justice, equality, and respect for all. Rooted in the belief that every person is entitled to certain basic rights and freedoms, the concept of human rights has evolved over centuries, reflecting the collective aspirations of humanity for a just and humane world.

The history of human rights can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where philosophers and thinkers articulated the idea of natural law—the notion that certain rights and principles are inherent in human nature. However, it was in the aftermath of World War II that the international community, horrified by the atrocities committed during the war, came together to establish a comprehensive framework for the protection of human rights. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, stands as a landmark document that outlines the basic rights and freedoms to which all individuals are entitled.

At its core, human rights encompass a broad spectrum of rights, ranging from civil and political rights to economic, social, and cultural rights. Civil and political rights include the right to life, liberty, and security of person; freedom of expression, assembly, and association; and the right to a fair trial. These rights form the bedrock of a democratic society, ensuring that individuals can participate in the governance of their communities and express their opinions without fear of reprisal.

On the other hand, economic, social, and cultural rights focus on the well-being and dignity of individuals within a society. These rights include the right to work, the right to education, the right to health, and the right to an adequate standard of living. Recognizing the interdependence and indivisibility of all human rights, the international community acknowledges that civil and political rights cannot be fully realized without the simultaneous realization of economic, social, and cultural rights. One of the key principles underlying human rights is the concept of universality. Human rights are not contingent upon cultural or political context; they are applicable to all people, everywhere. Regardless of differences in political systems, economic structures, or cultural traditions, the principles enshrined in international human rights instruments apply universally. This universality is grounded in the understanding that certain rights are inherent to human dignity and are not subject to the whims of governments or cultural relativism.

Human rights also serve as a powerful tool for promoting equality and combating discrimination. They provide a framework for challenging and dismantling systems of oppression based on race, gender, religion, or any other characteristic. The struggle for civil rights, women's rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and the rights of marginalized communities around the world is deeply intertwined with the principles of human rights. Through advocacy, education, and legal mechanisms, human rights empower individuals and communities to demand equality and justice.

However, the realization of human rights is an ongoing challenge, and violations persist in various parts of the world. Authoritarian regimes, armed conflicts, discrimination, poverty, and other systemic issues pose significant obstacles to the full enjoyment of human rights. The international community plays a crucial role in holding violators accountable, advocating for change, and providing support to those whose rights are under threat.

The protection and promotion of human rights require a commitment to the rule of law and a robust system of accountability. International human rights treaties, conventions, and mechanisms provide a framework for holding states accountable for their human rights obligations. Regional human rights courts and the International Criminal Court are examples of institutions designed to ensure that those responsible for human rights violations are held accountable for their actions.