Human rights recognise the inherent value of each person, regardless of background, where we live, what we look like, what we think or what we believe.
Human rights are based on principles of dignity, equality and mutual respect, which are shared across cultures, religions and philosophies. They are about being treated fairly, treating others fairly and having the ability to make genuine choices in our daily lives.
Respect for human rights is the cornerstone of strong communities in which everyone can make a contribution and feel included.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations on 10 December 1948, sets out the basic rights and freedoms that apply to all people. Drafted in the aftermath of World War Two, it has become a foundation document that has inspired many legally-binding international human rights laws.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights helps countries around the world make laws which are fair and equitable for everyone, no matter what. Human rights apply everyday in Australia, no matter who you are, such as:
There are many, many other examples of human rights. For instance, in Australia it is against the law to fire someone from their job because of their race, gender, religion or sexuality. To do so, would be unlawful and an infringement of their human rights.
Unfortunately, yes. Around the world, and in Australia, there are people whose human rights are being violated.
A prominent Australian example would be the treatment of asylum seekers, some of whom are being held in detention centres indefinitely. It has been argued by lawyers, that by denying asylum seekers proper access to legal channels or even a release date, is a clear infringement of their human rights.
