The Article
All human beings are born free and equal
First/ All Human beings are Born Free
The Explanation of Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is the cornerstone of international human rights law, where freedom and equality for all stem from, regardless of our identity, orientation, thoughts, or beliefs. Article 1 also emphasizes that having rights does not mean “every man for himself,” but rather that human rights continue to be built upon the foundation of fraternity among all people. This is what we call solidarity today.
It clearly states:
“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.
They are endowed with reason and conscience.
They should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.”
This opening article establishes the fundamental and non-negotiable principles of:
Innate freedom
Universal equality
Human solidarity
From a human rights perspective, freedom, according to Amnesty International, means enjoying:
The rule of law
Security and safety
Freedom of movement
Freedom of religion
Freedom of assembly
Freedom of association
Freedom of civil society
Freedom of expression and information
Freedom of social relations
Size of government
Legal system
Property rights
Currency stability
Freedom of international trade and regulation.
Second/ All Human beings are Born equal means
Equality affirms that all human beings are born free and equal.
Equality presupposes that all individuals have the same rights
Deserve the same respect
All people have the right to be treated equally
Reporting Human Rights Violations
You can—and should—report human rights violations. Even if perpetrators are not prosecuted, media attention or the possibility of an investigation can deter them.
- List the specific articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that were violated.
- List the facts, as far as possible, in chronological order.
- Include the date, time, and location of the incident(s); the name and position of the perpetrator(s); the place of detention, if any; the names and addresses of any witnesses; and any other relevant details.
Organizations to which you can report:
Amnesty International
Human Rights Action Centre
Human Rights Centre – Human Rights Centre
Human Rights Watch
Human Rights Watch | Defending Human Rights Worldwide
Child Defense Fund