Human Rights Day 10th December 2023

Human rights belong to everyone and affect every aspect of our lives. They are about the right to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. They are about the freedom to voice ideas openly. They protect individuals from arbitrary and excessive action that may result in loss of life, liberty, degrading treatment or intrusion into people’s personal lives. Human Rights Day 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This landmark document enshrines the rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being - regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. UN Secretary-General António Guterres states, “The Universal Declaration shows the way to common values and approaches that can help resolve tensions and create the security and stability our world craves." (Human Rights Day | United Nations).

No matter the cause of war or the forces involved, the results are often the same. Armed conflicts mean devastating loss of civilian life, massive displacement and violations of human rights and international humanitarian law (Amnesty International). From Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to the treatment of Uyghurs in China, from the Afghan humanitarian crisis with millions on the brink of starvation to the unprecedented escalation of violence in Israel and Palestine, which has had devastating consequences for civilians on both sides, “it is especially in times of conflicts and war that we need to uphold the universality of human rights, ensure the application of the rule of law without discrimination, and carefully avoid double standards” (OHCHR).

Human Rights in the workplace

In the workplace, human rights include the right to a safe working environment, the right to fair remuneration and equal pay for equal work, the right to organise and participate in collective bargaining and the right to be protected from forced labour and trafficking. Businesses are required to comply with all applicable laws and to respect human rights. Complying with all applicable laws will help ensure that human rights are respected. For example, the Equality Act 2010 helps to fulfil the right to non-discrimination, and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 help protect the right to a safe working environment. Failure to recognise and remedy human rights abuses may have serious consequences for a business and lead to negative media attention, loss of contracts, and most seriously, closure (a_guide_to_business_and_human_rights equalityhumanrights.com).

Freedom of speech is a fundamental human right that is enshrined in many national and international laws and declarations. Freedom of speech in the workplace is a complex issue that requires a delicate balancing act between different rights and responsibilities. While employees have the right to express themselves freely, this right is not absolute. Therefore, employers have a responsibility to ensure that their workplace is safe, respectful, and free from harm. Ultimately, it is up to both employees and employers to work together to create a workplace culture that respects everyone’s rights and promotes open and honest communication (Is there really freedom of speech in the workplace? | The HR Booth).

How to Participate in Human Rights Day 2023?

• Participate in local or virtual events, seminars, and conferences that focus on human rights issues and discussions.
• Learn about the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and its principles. Understand the human rights challenges faced by different communities around the world.
• Get involved in advocacy campaigns to promote human rights, support marginalized communities, and fight against discrimination and injustice.
• Contribute to or volunteer with organisations that work to protect and defend human rights globally.
• Advocate for equality, inclusivity, and social justice in your community and workplace.

Lizzy Turek

Client Research Associate