Highlights

Take a closer look at some of the events and stories taking place across the world to celebrate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

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The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights with the Mayor of Paris.

Paris launches UDHR70 campaign

11 December 2017

On Human Rights Day this year, UN Human Rights Chief, Zeid Ra’ad al Hussein, was invited by the Mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, to kick-off the UDHR70 campaign, the yearlong celebration to mark the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in its birthplace, Palais de Chaillot.

It was there that 69 years ago, on 10 December 1948, world leaders gathered to adopt unanimously the Declaration, the first document to recognize what have become universal human values: equal dignity and worth of every person.

"It is up to us, now. It is up to me; to you, in this room; to every kind of audience we can reach, in every city and province and country where there is still space to express thoughts, participate in decisions, raise one's voice. We need to stand up for the human rights system, and act to promote peace," Zeid said during a public conference where he interacted with French governmental officials, civil society actors as well as everyday Parisians.

He recalled that since the adoption of the Declaration, countless people have gained greater freedom because of the tireless, selfless work and sacrifices of human rights activists.

"We need to fight back against discrimination, and uphold justice. We must organize and mobilise in defence of human decency, in defence of a common future and in defence of human rights. The time is now, and the leader you are looking for is – you."

The following day, Zeid opened the session of the Conseil de Paris, the council governing the public affairs of France’s capital. At the opening, the Mayor of Paris gave the city’s support to the UN Human Rights Office.

"Paris will continue, with a louder voice and with greater strength, to promote human rights. We stand by your side, High Commissioner, and Paris will live up to what is at stake: humanity," Mayor Hidalgo said.

The City of Paris, in association with the UN Human Rights Office and the NGO Poster for Tomorrow, is also showing its unwavering support by displaying at the Tour Saint-Jacques 26 posters illustrating the Declaration created by international artists. These posters will be on display until 2 January 2018.

How can you too show your support? You can start with these five simple things:


  • I will respect your rights regardless of who you are. I will uphold your rights even when I disagree with you
  • When anyone’s human rights are denied, everyone's rights are undermined, so I will stand up
  • I will raise my voice. I will take action. I will use my rights to stand up for your rights.

people have stood up for human rights

We can all be Human Rights Champions

Tweet, Instagram or YouTube your action using the hashtag #Standup4humanrights.

Spread the word

#Standup4humanrights