What Are Human Rights?

Human rights are a universal concept that defines those standards necessary for people to live lives of dignity and equality. Human rights are based on the principle that every person is inherently free and equal. They are fundamental to our humanity, and they cannot be surrendered or negotiated with. They are indivisible and interrelated, and the enjoyment of one right is intrinsically linked to the enjoyment of other rights.

Human rights have been advanced through international law and practice, starting with the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As human rights progressed, the definition of rights grew to include specific standards for women, children and people with disabilities. While many societies still discriminate against these groups, human rights laws provide the basis for challenging their practices and ensuring that their rights are respected.

The notion of human rights is not a 20th-century invention; all cultures have ideals and traditions that promote these values. For example, the Greek playwright Sophocles argued in his work Antigone that it was the duty of everyone to obey the law of nature and the immutable laws of God.

The most effective way to fight for human rights is through group activism. Individuals can only do so much, and the vast majority of human rights violations are long-term issues that require sustained effort. By working with others who share our values, we can protect ourselves from burnout and support each other when we face challenges. We can also help each other find new perspectives and strategies.