United
Nations Secretary-General's message
on the Human Rights Day on 10 December 2003
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights has served as
a beacon of hope for our world for fifty-five years. So
have the brave men and women who defend human rights in
every country. Today, I wish to pay tribute to their commitment
and their courage.
I do so less than four months after the United Nations
lost its chief human rights defender – Sergio Vieira
de Mello, the High Commissioner for Human Rights –
who died along with 21 other dedicated servants of peace
and human rights in the attack on United Nations headquarters
in Baghdad. His death was a bitter blow to the cause of
human rights.
Human rights defenders stand in the front lines of protection,
casting the bright light of human rights into the darkest
corners of tyranny and abuse. They work to safeguard the
rule of law, to reduce violence, poverty and discrimination,
and to build structures for freer, more equitable and more
democratic societies. It is to them that many victims of
human rights violations turn in their hour of need.
A few human rights defenders receive recognition –
for instance, the outstanding individuals and organizations
who today will receive the 2003 United Nations Prizes in
the Field of Human Rights; and Ms. Shirin Ebadi, who today
will receive the Nobel Peace Prize for her courageous efforts
to promote human rights. Yet most defenders of human rights
receive little recognition or appreciation – and many
continue to be attacked, harassed, or persecuted for doing
their vital work.
The defence of human rights is not simply the responsibility
of such brave people. It is the responsibility of us all.
We must all be human rights defenders. And a good place
to start is to defend those who champion human rights.
I therefore salute each and every human rights defender,
wherever you are. You each play an important role in building
a world that lives up to the promise of the Universal Declaration
– a world that respects the inherent dignity and equal
and inalienable rights of all members of the human family.
Your work is an inspiration to us all. And you are not alone.
©
UN, 2003. Prepared by the Department of Public Information
/ News and Media Division.
