Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi became the epicenter of profound discussions and reflections as India celebrated Human Rights Day, marking the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations in 1948. Organized by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the event highlighted the country’s steadfast dedication to justice, human dignity, and equal rights for all.
In her address, the President of India underscored the day’s significance, describing it as an opportunity to reaffirm collective efforts to build a society grounded in justice and dignity. She commended NHRC, State Human Rights Commissions (SHRCs), and civil society groups for their relentless work in addressing violations, raising awareness, and recommending policy changes to safeguard marginalized communities.
Emerging Challenges to Human Rights
The President identified cybercrimes and climate change as emerging threats, urging the need for secure digital environments and global cooperation to combat climate-related inequities. She emphasized India’s leadership role in the Global South, citing initiatives like the Green Credit Initiative and the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) Movement as examples of the nation’s commitment to sustainable progress.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) also emerged as a focal point, with discussions on its dual role as a solver of problems and a creator of ethical dilemmas. The President called for policies addressing AI’s implications on human rights, particularly in instances where violations could stem from non-human intelligent agents.
Advocacy for Vulnerable Groups
The mental well-being of children and youth took center stage, with the President appealing for collaborative measures to reduce stress and ensure emotional health. She also urged business leaders to address the challenges posed by the gig economy, ensuring the mental health of gig workers remains a priority.
Additionally, the growing elderly population—projected to reach 350 million by 2050—prompted calls for policies preserving their dignity and integrating them as valuable members of society.
Global Perspective and National Initiatives
In a message read out by UN representatives, the United Nations lauded India’s human rights outreach, especially its cooperation with the Global South. The Secretary General of NHRC reiterated the Indian Constitution’s alignment with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and detailed recent Commission activities, including national conferences on women’s safety and rights of older persons, advisories for vulnerable groups, and capacity-building programs.
Publications and Conferences
The event saw the release of three NHRC publications featuring expert articles and advisories to protect human rights. Attendees included members of the judiciary, diplomats, human rights defenders, and other dignitaries from across the globe.
NHRC also announced a National Conference on Mental Well-being, focusing on stress navigation from classrooms to workplaces, further exemplifying its commitment to fostering holistic human rights.
A Unified Call to Action
The celebration underscored India’s dedication to upholding human rights in an era of rapid technological and social changes. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to ensuring no individual is left behind, fortifying the foundations of a just and inclusive society.
