Human Rights
UPF's motto that all humanity is one family under God highlights the equal and precious value of all human life. UPF views the oneness of the global human family as a foundation for securing human rights, calling for greater spiritual awareness and a collective will to ensure the well being of all people. Thus, human rights are secured not merely through laws, backed by the power of government enforcement, but by a rising awareness of our universal solidarity as brothers and sisters who share a common spiritual and moral heritage
The UN designated December 10 as Human Rights Day, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on that day in 1948.
Resources for Organizing a Human Rights Day program
- Video: Universal Declaration of Human Rights (20-minute animation)
- UPF's Statement: Human Rights and Responsibilities
- Readings and commentaries on: Quotes about Human Rights
- PowerPoint presentation: Universal Ethical Principles as Foundations for Human Rights
Human Rights Day Programs Organized by UPF
2013: Burkina Faso,Czech Republic, Netherlands, Peru, Russia
2012: Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Peru, Russia
2011: Germany, Italy, Nepal, UK
2010: Afghanistan
2008: USA
UPF Forums on Human Rights Issues
Brussels, Belgium (2012)
Stuttgart, Germany (2011)
Tokyo, Japan (2010)
Kathmandu, Nepal (2011)
Amsterdam, Netherlands (2009)
Geneva, Switzerland (2008, 2009, 2011)
London, UK (2011, 2012, 2013)
New York, USA (Oct. 2008, Dec. 2008)
Insights about Human Rights
H.E. Anwarul Chowdhury, Former UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative: "Promoting Peace as a Human Right"
Aaron Rhodes, Co-Founder, Freedom Rights Project: "The European Union, European Citizens, and Human Rights"
Dr. Yong Cheon Song, Chairman, UPF-Europe: "What More Can Europe Do to Improve Human Rights?"
Dr. Yvonne von Stedingk, former member, Council of Europe, Directorate General of Human Rights, Geneva: "Rights and Responsibilities of the Individual to the Community and Others"
Peter Zoehrer, Secretary General, Forum for Religious Freedom, Austria: "The Role of Religion in Protecting Human Rights and Dignity"
The views and opinions expressed are those of the speakers or authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions held by Universal Peace Federation.