Human Rights Day

Human Rights Day 

10 December 2016

Today on 10 December 2016, we commemorate Human Rights Day. It was on this day 68 years ago that the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Australia’s commitment to human rights is enduring. We are a founding member of the United Nations and we have been an advocate for its purposes and principles ever since. Our commitment reflects our national values.

This year, Human Rights Day calls for everyone to stand up for someone’s rights today #standupforhumanrights. We must continue our commitment to ensuring that all people are entitled to respect, dignity and protection of their rights.

It is with this commitment that Australia is campaigning for a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2018-2020 term. If elected, Australia will be a principled and pragmatic Council member, engaging constructively with Member States, playing a bridge-building role and working to find practical solutions that have lasting effects for the most vulnerable groups.

For more information see our page on Australia’s candidacy for the United Nations Human Rights Council 2018-2020.