On 10 December, the international community celebrates International Human Rights Day, a day set aside to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which is a fundamental international human rights instrument.
Today, we celebrate this event by calling on everyone to celebrate human rights not only on December 10 but also throughout the year, given that every day is an international human rights day. The theme for this year reminds us that promoting, implementing and protecting human rights is a daily activity which requires commitment and perseverance.
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the Commission) would like to seize this special opportunity to highlight the several challenges faced by the African continent, in particular the numerous armed conflicts and violence which cause the massive displacement of populations; people with disabilities who do not fully enjoy their rights; women combating gender-based violence; the phenomenon of sexual violence used as a weapon of war during armed conflict; children, in particular girls, who are yet to achieve their right to education; and the conservation of natural resources.
This year in particular, the African continent has been the theatre of several political, sectarian and health crises, in addition to the many armed conflicts. Africa is facing these crises with dignity thanks to the commitment of the women and men who continue to fight tirelessly to preserve peace and harmony in Africa.
The Commission pays tribute to all the men, women, the youth and elderly people who are working towards making every day a day of victory for the enjoyment of and respect for human rights throughout the world and in Africa in particular.
The Commission reaffirms its commitment to continue to work relentlessly with all its partners towards the promotion and protection of human rights.
The Commission urges States to remain committed in promoting and protecting human rights, and calls upon every African to do the same on a daily basis.
On this occasion of the celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the provision under Article 1 which stipulates that: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood” is more relevant than ever, given that human rights is our collective responsibility, and every effort counts.
Banjul, 10 December 2014
