Education of Human Rights

While many associate human rights with the rule of law and the government, it’s important to remember that these rights are applicable to every individual in the United States, regardless of their status or position in society. So what, then, is the education of human rights? The answer lies within its definition—the process by which people learn about their human rights, understand how they should be applied to each situation, and develop the tools needed to defend those rights effectively when needed. It’s an ongoing educational process that everyone can benefit from, and it’s one that you should definitely consider getting involved with today.

History of human rights education

The history of human rights education is long and varied. Early efforts focused on teaching people about their rights under the law. However, as the understanding of human rights has evolved, so too has the focus of human rights education. Today, human rights education is about much more than just legal rights – it also encompasses social, economic, and cultural rights. 

For example, a person with a disability may have access to the same educational opportunities as any other person. However, they may not be able to find employment afterwards because society lacks an understanding of how to accommodate them in the workplace. In this case, human rights education would need to include teaching about inclusion and equality for people with disabilities.

Today, there are a variety of ways to become involved in human rights education. You can volunteer with an organization that focuses on educating vulnerable populations, or you can focus your efforts on improving awareness in your community by volunteering at local schools and teaching about human rights there.

Current issues of human rights education

The current issues that the world is facing in terms of human rights education are manifold. 

  • First, there is a lack of understanding of what human rights are and how they can be protected.
  •  Second, there is a lack of awareness of the importance of human rights and the need to respect them. 
  • Third, there is a lack of knowledge about the different ways in which human rights can be violated.
  •  Fourth, there is a lack of awareness of the different mechanisms that exist to protect human rights.
  • Fifth, there is a lack of understanding of the implications of inaction when it comes to defending human rights. 
  • Sixth, people don’t always have access to information on these topics due to their geographical location or language barriers.

Principles of human rights education activities

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a document that was created by the United Nations in 1948. The UDHR outlines basic human rights that should be guaranteed to everyone. Education is a human right because it helps people develop the skills and knowledge they need to live a productive and fulfilling life. Every person has the right to an education that meets their needs, regardless of their race, gender, or economic status. 

Today, there are many different types of schools that cater to all sorts of students with different interests and goals. There are primary schools for children aged 5-11 years old, secondary schools for 12-16 year olds, vocational schools for those wanting to learn a trade as opposed to higher education, technical colleges for those wanting higher technical training than high school provides, and community colleges, which are vocational programs usually geared towards local students rather than international students who want exposure to the US system while studying abroad on academic visas.

Characteristics of human rights education

When learning about human rights, there are a few key characteristics to keep in mind. 

  • First, human rights are inalienable, meaning they cannot be taken away. Second, human rights are universal, meaning they apply to everyone regardless of race, sex, nationality, etc. 
  • Third, human rights are indivisible, meaning they cannot be divided up or traded away. 
  • Fourth, human rights are interdependent, meaning they rely on each other for their existence. 
  • Finally, human rights are characterized by universality and equality. 

These aspects work together so that no one is discriminated against based on the color of their skin, gender identity, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, age, or any other factor that may differentiate someone from another person.

Rights and responsibilities action plan

Learning about the obligations that come with each right is essential to understanding one’s own human rights. As long as human rights are the property of both individuals and society at large, it is everyone’s job to uphold, protect, and advance these freedoms. For example, the Preamble of the UDHR calls on “every individual and every organ of society” as well as authorities to support human rights. Learning about human rights gives people the education and understanding they need to fulfill this obligation.

The duty to advance human rights is inextricably linked to the duties of all people in a democratic society. Both democracy and human rights require the continued engagement of the populace to thrive. Understanding advocacy techniques—how to act and behave each day in support of human rights—is a part of human rights education.

Education on human rights also serves as a foundation for resolving disputes and advancing natural cohesion. When someone’s dedication to public safety competes with another’s desire for freedom of speech, for example, rights themselves frequently come into conflict. Human rights can provide a framework for evaluating and addressing such disparities since they are a value system founded on regard, the fairness, and decency of all individuals. Negotiation, mediation, and consensus building are other topics included in human rights education.