PRESS RELEASE ​UN Rwanda joins hands with the national and international community to mark the 70th Birthday of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

KIGALI, 04 DEC 2018 - This Monday – the day the Universal Declaration of Human Rights turns 70 years old – the One UN in Rwanda will come together for discussion and celebration for the finale of a yearlong campaign #StandUp4HumanRights.

The dignity of millions has been uplifted, thanks to the Declaration; thanks also to the commitment of member states, it has laid the foundations for a more just world. Human Rights Day exists to attract the attention “of the people of the world”. Among many things, it spotlights how the Declaration plays out in everyday lives.

“The promise of the declaration continues on its journey of being realized, but the very fact it has stood the test of time is extremely significant. Its continued relevance and poignance is testament to the enduring universality of its values”, said Chris Mburu, Senior Human Rights Advisor to the One UN in Rwanda.

Commemorating the day that the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration, back in 1948, International Human Rights Day is celebrated in every country of the World on 10thDecember of every year.

To highlight what the Universal Declaration means for people in their everyday lives, UN Human Rights launched a yearlong campaign under the theme: “STAND UP FOR HUMAN RIGHTS”. The celebration on the 10th December is the culmination of this far-reaching international campaign.

Joining hands with national partners such as the Ministry of Justice and the National Human Rights Commission, the day will include a variety of events and commemorations.

The ‘main event’ will be the diplomatic reception. Every year lends the opportunity for both the UN and its member states to reaffirm commitment to human rights. As the 70th Anniversary, this year is special. Taking place at Serena Hotel on the Monday evening, relevant Rwanda Government officials, members of the diplomatic community, UN representatives, civil society leaders, private sector representatives and other dignitaries will get together under one roof.

There is also an event in Parliament organized by the National Commissioner for Human Rights. The theme is Stand up for Human Rights: role of rights holders and duty bearers in promoting and protecting human rights in Rwanda. The event is a high level multi-stakeholders conference and will take place in the morning of Human Rights Day.

All members of the Public are invited to participate in the national conversation through the hashtag #StandUp4HumanRights.

ENDS