On the 76th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration … I Have Not Lost Hope for a Better Tomorrow

By Ayman Okeil

On December 10, 1948, the Palais de Chaillot in Paris witnessed the adoption of Resolution No. 217 A by the United Nations General Assembly, which established the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This significant event marked the same day the United Nations designated as International Human Rights Day, following over two years of discussions and 24 working sessions that addressed the rights and freedoms outlined in the Declaration. Egypt was one of 48 countries that approved this resolution and actively participated in drafting the Declaration, proposing amendments to some of its texts. The initiative to create a comprehensive document with international acceptance was a natural response to the violations of basic human rights and dignity that occurred during the First and Second World Wars.

On the seventy-sixth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we have an opportunity to reflect on the principles enshrined in this document. Despite its noble intent, these rights continue to be undermined in many parts of the world. The situations in Sudan, the occupied Palestinian territories, and Lebanon serve as stark reminders of this reality, as terrorist groups in Somalia, Syria, and the Sahel region continue to seize control of territories and perpetrate heinous violations against civilians, in direct contravention of the rights outlined in the Declaration. This situation is exacerbated by a blatant disregard for international law and the weakness of its enforcement in conflict zones. Additionally, the double standards exhibited by Western countries and the United States, particularly evident in their differing responses to the Russian-Ukrainian war versus the Israeli conflict in Gaza, further highlight these issues. The rights of immigrants and refugees are still being violated, as seen in Yemen and Europe, where many nations refuse to welcome them, ignoring the circumstances that forced them to flee their homes, families, and memories.
The ongoing turmoil in the Middle East underscores that Western countries have yet to rectify the mistakes of the past. The ignition of fires, wars, and conflicts will leave no safe haven for anyone, not just in the Middle East. This year’s theme, chosen by the High Commissioner for Human Rights under the slogan “Our Rights… Our Future,” emphasizes the need for collective efforts to achieve these rights.

Therefore, it is crucial for everyone to remain patient, wise, and committed to the standards outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which paves the way for a world rooted in tolerance and dialogue, where all rights are protected. The future must be inclusive, or it risks being devoid of hope.

Despite the current global reality fraught with conflict, I choose to view the glass as half full. Even amidst the challenges facing the Declaration, there remains an opportunity to leverage the rights it encompasses as a powerful tool to advance all human rights, including economic and social rights, as well as the right to development. These rights are interconnected and indivisible, as stated in the preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

As I reflect on the numerous violations happening around the world, I want to express that I have not lost hope for a better tomorrow. I believe we can draw inspiration from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the principles it embodies to guide us toward a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. Together, we can fulfill the promise of the 2023 Sustainable Development Agenda, ensuring that no one is left behind in our pursuit of sustainable development.