European institutions call for global commitment on International Human Rights Day

By Necva Tastan Sevinc

ISTANBUL (AA) - The EU and the Council of Europe on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to upholding universal human rights, emphasizing the urgent need for global action amid growing challenges to fundamental freedoms.

The EU high representative issued a statement on International Human Rights Day, emphasizing this year's theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.”

The statement underscored the critical role of human rights in achieving a just, resilient, and sustainable world.

Human rights "are essential for human dignity, equality, democracy, peace, and sustainable development," the statement read, urging respect for these principles to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Highlighting global crises such as Russia's war against Ukraine which started in 2022, conflicts in the Middle East and Sudan, and the persistent challenges of gender inequality, the EU stressed the "irreplaceable" nature of the international rules-based order, with human rights at its core.

Peace "requires daily work, continuous commitment, and advocating for equality, non-discrimination, justice, and democracy," it added, calling for collaboration to empower young people and support human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society actors.

The EU also reiterated its steadfast support for the UN and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, urging all states to fulfill their obligations.

- States have right to keep borders secure in full compliance with int’l law

As the Council of Europe celebrates its 75th anniversary, the EU reaffirmed its intent to accede to the European Convention on Human Rights.

In a separate statement, the Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner highlighted key priorities, including the human rights violations stemming from the Russian war in Ukraine, the treatment of Roma communities, and concerns about increasing border securitization across Europe.

"States have a right to keep borders secure, but they must do so in full compliance with international law," Michael O'Flahert said.

The Commissioner also underlined the importance of supporting civil society, noting it is "under too much pressure in too many places."

Looking ahead to 2025, the Commissioner pledged to work closely with national human rights institutions, equality bodies, and international organizations to address persistent challenges.

"Hope is not an option; it is a duty," O'Flahert concluded, urging collective action to achieve the vision of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

International Human Rights Day has been observed every year on Dec. 10 since 1948, when the UN General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.