The UN designated December 10 as Human Rights Day, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on that day in 1948. The Universal Peace Federation views the oneness of the global human family as a foundation for securing human rights, calling for greater spiritual awareness and a collective will to ensure the well being of all people. Thus, human rights are secured not merely through laws, backed by the power of government enforcement, but by a rising awareness of our universal solidarity, that we are one human family, brothers and sisters who share a common spiritual and moral heritage. We are one family under God.

Theme of Human Rights Day 2012: "My Voice Counts"

UPF Observances of UN Human Rights Day

2012:  Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Peru, Russia
2011:  Germany, Italy, Nepal, UK
2010:  Afghanistan
2008:  USA

Resources for Organizing a Program about Human Rights

Video: Universal Declaration of Human Rights (20-minute animation)
UPF's Statement: Human Rights and Responsibilities
PowerPoint presentation: Universal Ethical Principles as Foundations for Human Rights
PowerPoint presentation: Quotes about Human Rights

Reports of UPF Forums on Human Rights Issues

Brussels, Belgium (2012)
Stuttgart, Germany (2011)
Tokyo, Japan (2010)
Kathmandu, Nepal (2011)
Amsterdam, Netherlands (2009)
Geneva, Switzerland (2008, 2009, 2011)
London, UK (2011, 2012)
New York, USA (Oct. 2008, Dec. 2008)

Insights about Human Rights

H.E. Anwarul Chowdhury, Former UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative: "Promoting Peace as a Human Right"
Aaron Rhodes, Co-Founder, Freedom Rights Project: "The European Union, European Citizens, and Human Rights"
Dr. Yong Cheon Song, Chairman, UPF-Europe: "What More Can Europe Do to Improve Human Rights?"
Dr. Yvonne von Stedingk, former member, Council of Europe, Directorate General of Human Rights, Geneva: "Rights and Responsibilities of the Individual to the Community and Others"
Peter Zoehrer, Secretary General, Forum for Religious Freedom, Austria: "The Role of Religion in Protecting Human Rights and Dignity"