Important Declarations and Conventions
The goal of the following declarations and conventions is to ensure the protection and promotion of the human rights of every individual, no matter our nationality, gender, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, language, or any other characteristic.
They are the foundational documents of the international human rights regime, inspiring and guiding all of us to address injustice and work towards achieving a better world with true universal enjoyment of these rights.
-
The Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR)
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is an international document adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1948 that enshrines the rights and freedoms of all human beings. It consists of 30 articles detailing an individual's "basic rights and fundamental freedoms.” Article 16 espouses men and women’s equal rights regarding marriage. Article 18 contains the right to Freedom of Religion and Belief.
-
The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)
The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) is a treaty adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1966. It commits the signing parties to respect the civil and political rights of individuals, including the right to life, freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom of assembly. Article 18 contains the right to Freedom of Religion and Belief.
-
The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is the United Nations’ organ that promotes gender equality and the empowerment of women. Every year, the Commission evaluates global progress in gender equality, identifying challenges and setting global standards. It also formulates concrete policies to promote gender equality worldwide.
-
The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)
The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) is an international treaty adopted in 1979 by the United Nations General Assembly. The Convention plays an important role in bringing women into the focus of human rights concerns. It also establishes an international bill of rights for women and an agenda for countries to guarantee the enjoyment of those rights.
-
The Declaration of Humanity by Leaders of Faith and Leaders of Belief
The Declaration of Humanity by Leaders of Faith and Leaders of Belief is a declaration signed in November 2020. It acknowledges the double vulnerability that women of religious minorities face and encourages faith leaders to affirm the innocence of survivors and the need to fully honor and accept them.
-
The United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief
The United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief is a UN resolution passed in November 1981. Its eight (8) articles elaborate on the freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.