- Define and explain The Universal Declaration in your own words
- Use key terms such as Universal Declaration of Human Rights accurately
- Apply what you have learned to new examples and questions
- Avoid the common mistakes learners make with this topic
This lesson focuses on The Universal Declaration: explores the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948.
Explores the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948.
Key ideas
1948: the world writes them down
After the horrors of the Second World War, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Paris in 1948. Drafted by a committee chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt, it lists 30 articles covering everything from freedom of thought to the right to rest and leisure. The Declaration is not itself a binding law, but it inspired binding treaties and many national constitutions, making it one of the most influential documents in history.
Rights belong to everyone
Human rights are universal, meaning they apply to all people in all countries, and inalienable, meaning they cannot be taken away — though they can be limited in specific situations, such as prison sentences decided by courts. They include civil and political rights like free speech and a fair trial, and economic and social rights like education and healthcare. No government grants these rights; governments are expected to respect and protect them.
Key term — Universal Declaration of Human Rights: The UDHR is the landmark 1948 United Nations document setting out 30 articles of fundamental rights and freedoms for all people.
When and by whom was the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted?
In 1948 by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris.
Answer: In 1948 by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris.
- 'Children's rights matter less than adults' rights' Children's rights are fully human rights, plus extra protections because children are still developing. The UNCRC exists precisely because children need more safeguarding, not less.
- 'The UDHR is a law that police enforce directly' The UDHR is a declaration of principles, not a directly enforceable law. Its power comes from inspiring binding treaties and national laws that courts can enforce.
Practice
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), the treaty guaranteeing children's rights.
Basic freedoms and protections belonging to every person simply for being human.
Because children are still developing and need special protection, provision and a say in decisions affecting them.
Their shouting infringes classmates' right to learn; rights are limited by the rights of others and carry responsibilities.
Quick check
Which of these best defines "Universal Declaration of Human Rights"?
Give one example of a right and the responsibility that comes with it.
- The Universal Declaration: explores the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations in 1948.
- 1948: the world writes them down: After the horrors of the Second World War, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Paris in 1948.
- UNCRC: The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) is the international treaty guaranteeing children's rights to protection, provision and participation.
- Watch out for: 'Children's rights matter less than adults' rights'