Human Rights: A Personal Perspective

Hello! I am Amadeo Pérez, and today I want to talk to you about a subject that touches me very closely: human rights. Throughout my life, I have had various experiences that have led me to understand the importance of these fundamental rights. Let me share with you my vision and some experiences that illustrate why human rights are essential for everyone.

What are Human Rights?

To begin with, let's define what we mean by human rights. According to the United Nations, human rights are those inherent to all human beings, without distinction of race, sex, nationality, ethnic origin, language, religion or any other status. They include the right to life, liberty, education, work, among others. In short, they are the rights to which we are entitled simply because we are people.

My First Encounter with Human Rights

I remember that, as a young man, I participated in a European volunteer program in Romania. My job was to produce videos on active citizenship, working with students from various high schools. This experience opened my eyes to different realities and made me understand the importance of defending human rights in any context.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights

A fundamental milestone in the history of human rights is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. This document establishes, for the first time, fundamental human rights that must be universally protected. The UDHR has served as inspiration for the constitutions of many countries and is considered a common standard of achievement for all peoples and nations.

Recent Cases of Human Rights Violations

Regrettably, human rights violations continue to occur around the world. For example, in Ecuador, four young men were captured by the military, beaten and later found burned in a swampy area. This tragic incident highlights the need for constant vigilance and effective mechanisms to protect people's fundamental rights.

The Importance of Human Rights Education

Education plays a crucial role in the promotion and protection of human rights. During my time as an educator-in-training, I worked with students and teachers on activities that sought to empower young people to become human rights activists. The school can be the ideal place, and a book, an important tool to facilitate this process.

Final Reflections

Throughout my life, I have learned that human rights are not just abstract concepts; they are principles that directly affect our lives and the lives of those around us. It is our collective responsibility to defend and promote them, ensuring that all people can live with dignity and freedom.

I hope this article has given you an up close and personal perspective on human rights. I encourage you to reflect on how you can contribute in your day-to-day life to the promotion and defense of these fundamental rights.