Are Human Rights Universal?

“Declaration of Human Rights.” Photo credit:Vibragielviaphotopin cc

According the American Heritage Dictionary, human rights are the basic rights and freedoms to which all humans are entitled. Basic human rights are valued by some governments more than others. Regardless, citizens across cultural and geographic boundaries seek rights like freedom of expression, freedom to choose a religion, freedom from torture and the right to vote. But is the concept of human rights universal?

InSIRS Issues Researcher, ProQuest editors have posed this essential question in the Leading Issue for Human Rights, Universal.

While some stand by the belief that human rights apply to everyone regardless of their culture, there are others who believe human rights are defined and limited by where they live or their customs and day-to-day challenges.

The concept of universal human rights is outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. This important document has become a highly regarded cornerstone within international law. The declaration describes over two dozen forms of human freedom.

What is your declaration?

Investigate this Leading Issue further with ProQuest resources:

OurHuman Rights Leading IssueandHuman Rights, Universal Leading Issueare complete with a long list of editorially-selected human rights content.
Another helpful tool found in SIRS WebSelect isConstitute. This website lets you browse the world’s most important documents.
A digital copy of theUniversal Declaration of Human Rightsis located on the Human Rights Leading Issue page.
Primary Sources & Statistics
Atimelinechronicling milestones and advances in human rights history.