Islamabad, 11 December 2023 (TDI): On 10 December 2023, Pakistan joined the international community in commemorating the 75th anniversary of one of the world’s most groundbreaking global pledges, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” The iconic opening sentence of the Universal Declaration promotes lives of peace and dignity for all without any discrimination.
On the occasion, the foreign minister of Pakistan said that the declaration inspires humanity’s continued efforts to “promote universal respect for and observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
He said that in Pakistan, our commitment to protect and promote rights of people is a constitutional duty and a guiding light. Pakistan’s democratic traditions, civil society, media, and legal institutions underpin our unwavering commitment to the rights and freedoms of all citizens.
The Foreign Minister added that Pakistan welcomes the theme of this year’s International Day, “Freedom, equity, and Justice.” Pakistan joins the international community in celebrating the progress made in realizing these shared goals.
It is also an important occasion to reflect on the risks arising from impunity in violation of these fundamental norms. Festering and unresolved conflicts remain the most significant impediment to realizing the lofty ideals of freedom, justice, and equity.
While commenting on Palestine and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir he said that occupying powers’ brazen disregard for international human rights law and international humanitarian law can never suppress the people’s aspirations for liberty and self-determination.
During the occasion, the Secretary General of United Nations applauded the importance of Universal Declaration of Human Rights and said that it is as important today as it was when it was adopted 75 years ago.
He added that today the world is losing its way. Conflicts are raging. Poverty and hunger are increasing. Inequalities are deepening. The climate crisis is a human rights crisis hitting the most vulnerable hardest. Authoritarianism is on the rise.
On this occasion, the Secretary General urged the people around the world to promote and respect human rights, every day, for everyone, everywhere.
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