Human Rights Basics

Human Rights Basics



The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is the foundation of the international system of protection for human rights. It was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10th, 1948.  This day is celebrated annually as International Human Rights Day. The 30 articles of the UDHR establish the civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights of all people. It is a vision for human dignity that transcends political boundaries and authority, committing governments to uphold the fundamental rights of each person.  The UDHR helps guide Amnesty International's work.

We also use these principles to help us define human rights and the issues we relentlessly fight for.

Why We Fight