Human rights are the fundamental liberties and freedoms everyone possesses, from birth until death. These rights apply regardless of where you are from, what you believe, or how you live. Human rights are based on the shared values of dignity, fairness, equality, respect, and independence. They recognize the inherent worth of each person and protect individual freedom. Some core human rights include the right to life, liberty, and personal security; freedom from slavery, torture, and arbitrary arrest; the right to a fair trial; freedom of speech, thought, conscience, and religion; the right to education, employment, and an adequate standard of living.
Human rights are inalienable – they cannot be denied or taken away except in minimal circumstances. They are protected by international law, and governments must respect, protect, and fulfill them for all people within their jurisdictions. While countries may face challenges securing these rights, the universality of human rights is a core principle that applies to all nations and peoples. When human rights are not protected, individuals can seek remedies through national, regional, and UN human rights mechanisms, but it is the collective responsibility of governments to ensure these rights are upheld.